Definition

Verb phrase: - To perceive a single object as two overlapping or separate images, typically due to a vision impairment, medical condition, or intoxication. This is a specific visual disturbance known as diplopia.

Usage and Examples

• Primary Usage: Describes the specific symptom of double vision.
  • The boxer was hit so hard he started to see double.
  • A symptom of severe fatigue can be seeing double.
  • If you suddenly see double, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: Informally, it can describe a state of extreme confusion or being overwhelmed, where things seem chaotic or unclear, though not literally duplicated.
  • After reading the complex legal document, my head was spinning and I was seeing double.

Variants and Related Words

• Diplopia (n): The medical term for double vision.
• Blurred vision (n): Impaired vision where objects lose sharpness, which is a related but distinct condition from seeing double.

Synonyms

• Have double vision
• Experience diplopia

Notes on Meaning

• Important Distinction: "See double" refers specifically to the perception of two images. It is not used to mean simply looking at two of the same thing (e.g., seeing two cars). The duplication is a fault in visual perception, not in the number of objects present.

Verb

1. see things as if they were there twice
   • After taking the drug, John saw double