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trifocal

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //traɪˈfoʊkəl//

KK: /traɪˈfoʊkəl/

adjective
Definition

Relating to eyeglasses or lenses that have three different areas for seeing at different distances: far away, at a medium distance, and close up.


Example

She needs trifocal glasses to see clearly at all distances.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried trifocal glasses before?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've heard they're great for seeing at different distances.
Sloth A
Yeah, they really help with everything from reading to driving.
Sloth B
I might need to get a pair; my vision isn't what it used to be!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
multifocal
triple
threefold
Antonyms
bifocal
single
monofocal
noun
Definition

A type of lens or eyeglasses that has three different focal lengths, allowing the wearer to see clearly at different distances.


Example

She wears trifocal glasses to help her see both near and far without changing her eyewear.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried wearing trifocal glasses?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've heard they're really helpful.
Sloth A
Yeah, they let you see at different distances without switching glasses.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Trifocal → It is formed from 'tri-' (meaning three) and 'focal' (from Latin 'focus', meaning center or point of convergence). The word 'trifocal' refers to having three distinct focal points, typically in eyeglasses designed for vision at different distances.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tri-' meaning three, and 'focal' relating to a center or point. This helps you remember that trifocal lenses have three different points for seeing clearly.

Visually Confused Words
trochal
bifocal
Is this page helpful?
That sounds convenient! I might need to get a pair.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
lens
spectacles
glasses
Antonyms
monofocal
bifocal
single