A1adjective 1K

Left

UK /["/left/"]/ US /["/left/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

on the side of your body that is towards the west when you are facing north

Listen to definition

In simple words: The side of the body or a direction opposite to right.

Examples

• Fewer people write with their **left hand** than with their right.
• your **left knee/leg/foot/arm**
• the left side of the field
• The university is on the left bank of the river.
• Take a left turn at the intersection.
• a left back
• a **left hook** *(= a short hard hit with your closed left hand)*

Usage notes

Use 'left' when giving directions or describing location. In some contexts, 'left' can also refer to a political stance. Avoid using it ambiguously to prevent confusion.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Left sounds like 'left behind' — imagine someone turning away from something.

Collocations

• left turn
• left hand
• left side
• left behind
• left the room

Synonyms

• left-hand
• port
• sinister

Antonyms

• right

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'right' when giving directions.
• Using 'left' as a noun incorrectly.
• Mispronouncing 'left' as 'leftt'.