night vision

[/naɪt ˈvɪʒən/]
noun
visão noturna
1. The ability to see in low light or darkness, either naturally by humans and animals or through technological devices that amplify available light or detect infrared radiation
The soldier wore night vision goggles to navigate through the dark forest.
O soldado usava óculos de visão noturna para navegar pela floresta escura.
2. Technological equipment or devices designed to enable vision in darkness or poor lighting conditions
Modern night vision technology has revolutionized surveillance and military operations.
A tecnologia moderna de visão noturna revolucionou operações de vigilância e militares.
3. The natural biological capability of certain animals to see in low-light environments
Cats have excellent night vision due to their large eyes and reflective retinas.
Gatos têm excelente visão noturna devido aos seus olhos grandes e retinas refletoras.
In Brazil and the USA, 'night vision' is primarily associated with military, law enforcement, and surveillance technology. The term gained cultural prominence with military operations and spy films. In Brazilian Portuguese, the term is used in technical contexts, while colloquially, people might say 'enxergar no escuro' (to see in the dark) for natural vision abilities. Night vision goggles are iconic symbols in action movies and military media in both cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
thermal imaginglow-light visioninfrared visiondark vision
Antonyms / Antônimos
day visiondaylight vision

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
visão noturna
Standard term used across Brazil for both natural and technological night vision
São Paulo
visão noturna / óculos de visão noturna
Commonly used in military and security contexts
Rio de Janeiro
visão noturna
Standard usage, occasionally 'capacidade de ver no escuro'
Portugal
visão nocturna
Portuguese variation spelling; also used in military and technology sectors

Related Words

night vision gogglesthermal camerainfrarednocturnaldarknessillumination

Related Idioms & Phrases

in the dark
see in the dark
cat eyes (referring to natural night vision ability)
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