Yes, shades are often used as a synonym for sunglasses.
According to the provided reference, "some people use shades to describe frames with dark lenses that make it difficult to see the wearer's eyes". Therefore, "shades" functions as an alternative term for sunglasses, particularly those with dark lenses.
Here's a breakdown of why "shades" can be considered "sunglasses":
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Functionality: Both "shades" and "sunglasses" serve the primary function of protecting the eyes from sunlight.
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Dark Lenses: The reference specifically links "shades" to dark lenses, which is a common characteristic of sunglasses.
Therefore, while "shades" might sometimes imply a specific style of sunglasses (e.g., those with very dark lenses), it is generally understood as a synonym for sunglasses.
