left

/lɛft/
adjectivenounverbadverbBeginner💡 the opposite of right
general

the direction opposite to right

The left side of the road is for oncoming traffic.

A description of traffic direction.

💡

Often used to describe spatial orientation or direction.

🏥Medicine
anatomy

the side of the body that is on the opposite side of the heart

The left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the body.

A medical description of the heart's function.

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In anatomy, 'left' refers to the side of the body that is on the left when facing forward.

general

remaining or going in a particular direction

She left the room quietly.

She exited the room without making noise.

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Used to indicate departure or remaining in a state.

politics

the political ideology associated with liberalism and progressivism

The left-wing party advocates for social justice.

A description of a political party's stance.

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In politics, 'left' refers to ideologies that support social equality and government intervention.

Collocations

left sidethe side opposite to rightleft behindabandoned or not taken alongleft-handedusing the left hand more than the right

Related Phrases

left fieldphrase
unconventional or unexpected
left outphrase
excluded or not included

💡Pro Tip

Directional Use

When giving directions, 'left' refers to the direction opposite to right.

Gold Rule

Political Context

In political discussions, 'left' refers to ideologies that support social equality and government intervention.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'left', from Old English 'lyft', meaning 'weak or worthless'. The modern sense of direction developed later.

📝Usage Notes

The word 'left' can function as an adjective, noun, verb, or adverb depending on the context. In politics, it refers to ideologies that support social equality.

Word Breakdown

left
opposite of right
root
English Dictionary