Lefty: meaning, definitions and examples

Another informal term, often interchangeable with 'lefty'. It's frequently used in casual conversations.

• Are you a lefty? I noticed you write with your left hand

Mostly used in sports, especially boxing and baseball, to describe someone who is left-handed. It can be informal and sometimes carries a slightly quirky or affectionate tone.

• The southpaw pitcher threw a curveball that surprised the batter

Neutral term often used in both casual and formal contexts, especially in sports or discussions about handedness.

• She's a left-hander, so she needs a different kind of golf club

This term is often used in informal or conversational contexts to refer to someone with left-wing political views. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative or dismissive connotation.

• He's such a lefty, always talking about social justice and equality.

Typically refers to someone with modern, forward-thinking political views focusing on reform and social justice. Generally, it carries a positive connotation and is used in both formal and informal discussions.

• His progressive stance on healthcare reform has gained a lot of support.

Frequently used in both formal and informal settings to describe someone who supports progressive and reformist policies, particularly in the context of social issues. It is generally neutral but can be seen negatively by those with opposing views.

• She identifies as a liberal and supports measures to combat climate change.

Casual or informal conversations to describe someone who predominantly uses their left hand.

• Jake is a lefty, so he writes with his left hand.
• My sister is a lefty and finds it hard to use scissors.

Mainly used in sports, especially boxing and martial arts, to describe a left-handed athlete. Sometimes it can be used informally but is less common.

• The boxer switched to a southpaw stance to surprise his opponent.
• In baseball, the southpaw pitcher has an advantage against right-handed batters.

Formal or neutral contexts where specificity and clarity are required; often used in writing or professional communication.

• The study focused on the cognitive abilities of the left-handed person.
• It's essential to provide tools designed for a left-handed person in the workplace.