Left Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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left
[left ]
Definitions
direction
Situated on the side of the body to the west when facing north.
Synonyms
opposite of right, sinister.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| left |
Used as past tense and past participle of leave, meaning to go away from someone or something.
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| sinister |
Used to describe something that gives the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen. This word has a negative connotation.
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| opposite of right |
Usually used to describe directions or positions, often in a more descriptive or formal context.
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Examples of usage
- He extended his left hand for a handshake.
- Take the second left turn after the traffic lights.
past tense
To have gone away from a place.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| left |
Common and versatile; used in everyday conversation to indicate someone or something has gone away from a place. It is very neutral and widely understood.
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| departed |
Often used in more formal contexts, such as travel or when discussing someone's passing away. It sounds more official or respectful.
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| exited |
Used to emphasize the act of leaving a particular place or situation, usually where the way out is of focus. Often found in contexts like instructions, reports, or narratives.
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Examples of usage
- She left the party early to catch the last train.
- He left his keys at home and couldn't enter the house.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culture
- In some cultures, being left-handed is seen as special or gifted, while others may have treated left-handers as taboo.
- In sign language, the left hand is often used to represent intrinsic personal attributes or connections to one’s identity.
Science
- Neurologically, the brain has a dominant hemisphere; for most right-handed people, it's the left side that controls speech and language.
- Studies indicate that left-handed individuals may process information differently, showcasing unique cognitive skills.
Psychology
- Many left-handed people are thought to be more creative, possibly due to the different ways their brains are wired.
- Research shows that left-handed individuals may excel in tasks requiring spatial awareness, such as certain sports or arts.
Literature
- The theme of being 'left out' commonly appears in stories, often depicting feelings of isolation or being different.
- In classic literature, left-handed characters commonly embody themes of rebellion or nonconformity, challenging social norms.
Origin of 'left'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'left' comes from the Old English 'lyft', which means weak or foolish, connecting to various cultural views on left-handedness.
- In many cultures, 'left' has historically been associated with negative connotations, such as being untrustworthy or unlucky.
The word 'left' has a long history, dating back to Old English 'læft', meaning 'weak' or 'not strong'. Over time, it evolved to also mean 'opposite of right' and 'departed'. The concept of 'left' being the opposite of 'right' has been present in various cultures and languages. In many societies, 'left' is associated with negativity or inferiority, leading to phrases like 'left-handed compliment' or 'left out'. However, in some cultures, 'left' is considered lucky or auspicious. Overall, the word 'left' has diverse connotations and meanings across different contexts.