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Left: meaning, definitions and examples

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left

 

[ left ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

direction

Situated on the side of the body to the west when facing north.

Synonyms

opposite of right, sinister

Examples of usage

  • He extended his left hand for a handshake.
  • Take the second left turn after the traffic lights.
Context #2 | Verb

past tense

To have gone away from a place.

Synonyms

departed, exited

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

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

Word origin

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.

See also: leftist, leftover, leftovers, lefty.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #182, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.