Definition of Left (meaning 1 of 3 — adjective)
Quick Meaning of Left
On the other side from right; the direction that is opposite to right.
Detailed Definition of Left
Located on or oriented toward the side opposite to right; the direction to the west when facing north.
How to Pronounce Left
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable with short 'e' sound like in 'bed', followed by soft 'ft'.
Watch out: Rarely mispronounced; sometimes pronounced with schwa in fast speech.
Other Meanings of Left
“Left” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Left as a noun
The side of your body where your left hand is; the opposite direction from right.
on the left
#3 Left as a verb
Went away from a place; stopped being in a place or situation.
left early
Origin and Etymology of Left
From Old English 'lyft' meaning weak or broken side.
How to Use Left in a Sentence
Each example shows “left” in the meaning “On the other side from right; the direction…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“I write with my left hand.”
-
“Turn left at the next intersection.”
-
“The left side of the brain controls logical thinking.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Left
Common Synonyms for Left
Smart Synonyms for Left — When to Use Each
- leftward
- technical term for leftward movement
- sinister
- formal heraldic term for left
Antonyms of Left
Common Collocations with Left
These phrases pair with “left” in everyday English:
- left hand
- left side
- left wing
- turn left
- go left
Common Mistakes When Using Left
Even fluent speakers slip up with “left”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I am left handed.
- ✓ Correct: I am left-handed.
- Why: Use hyphen in compound adjective 'left-handed' before a noun.
- ✗ Wrong: The left direction is most important.
- ✓ Correct: The left side is most important.
- Why: Say 'left side' not 'left direction' in standard English.
Other Forms of Left
- Adjective: left
Frequently Asked Questions About Left
What is the meaning of "Left"?
On the other side from right; the direction that is opposite to right.
How do you pronounce "Left"?
The IPA is /lɛft/. One syllable with short 'e' sound like in 'bed', followed by soft 'ft'.
What part of speech is "Left"?
"Left" is an adjective at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Left"?
Common synonyms include leftward, sinister, port.
How do you use "Left" in a sentence?
For example: "I write with my left hand."