Left: meaning, definitions and examples
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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.
|
| 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.
|
| opposite of right |
Usually used to describe directions or positions, often in a more descriptive or formal context.
|
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.
|
| 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.
|
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "left" in other languages:
🇵🇹 esquerda
🇮🇳 बाएँ
🇩🇪 links
🇮🇩 kiri
🇺🇦 ліворуч
🇵🇱 lewo
🇯🇵 左
🇫🇷 gauche
🇪🇸 izquierda
🇹🇷 sol
🇰🇷 왼쪽
🇸🇦 يسار
🇨🇿 levý
🇸🇰 ľavý
🇨🇳 左边
🇸🇮 levo
🇮🇸 vinstri
🇰🇿 сол
🇬🇪 მარცხნივ
🇦🇿 sol
🇲🇽 izquierda