Which of the following is a common visual defect associated with cataracts?

Cloudiness is a hallmark characteristic of cataracts, which occur when the lens of the eye becomes opaque or cloudy. This cloudiness can lead to blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and a general haze sensation, which can significantly impact daily activities. Cataracts typically develop gradually and are often age-related, although they can also be caused by other factors such as prolonged UV exposure, certain medications, or other medical conditions.

The other potential options, while related to vision, do not specifically define the primary visual defect associated with cataracts. Color blindness pertains to the inability to perceive colors adequately and is typically a genetic condition rather than a result of cataracts. Short-sightedness relates to the ability of the eye to focus on near objects better than distant ones, which is more related to the shape of the eyeball rather than lens opacity. Night blindness refers to difficulty seeing in low light conditions, often associated with other issues such as vitamin A deficiency or retinal conditions, rather than the direct impact of cataracts specifically. Thus, cloudiness accurately describes the most common visual defect seen with cataracts.