Left

Definition

Left can function as an adjective, adverb, noun, and verb. As an adjective, it describes the side of the body or direction opposite to the right. As a noun, it refers to the left-hand side or political groups that favor social equality. As an adverb, it indicates direction or position. As a verb, it is the past tense and past participle of "leave."

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lɛft/
• Respelling: LEFT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lɛft/
• Respelling: LEFT

Etymology

The word "left" originates from Old English "lyft," meaning "weak" or "foolish," likely referring to the non-dominant hand. The political sense of "left" emerged from the French Revolution, where progressive factions sat on the left side of the assembly. Its use as the past tense of "leave" comes from Middle English "leven."

Derivatives

• Left-hand (adjective)
• Leftward (adjective/adverb)
• Leftist (noun/adjective)
• Leftover (noun/adjective)
• Leftmost (adjective)

Synonyms

• Sinistral (adjective)
• Progressive (noun, political)
• Departed (verb form)

Antonyms

• Right
• Conservative (political)
• Arrived (verb form)

Usage

The word "left" is versatile in use. As an adjective: "He writes with his left hand." As a noun: "The left of the room was empty." Politically: "She supports policies of the left." As a verb: "He left the house early this morning."

Related Terms

• Right: The opposite of left in direction or position.
• Progressive: Related to left-leaning political ideologies.
• Sinistral: A term for left-handedness or direction.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to the side of the body opposite to the right: Refers to physical orientation.
  • Example: "She injured her left arm."
• Relating to liberal or progressive politics: Indicates political ideology.
  • Example: "He belongs to a left-leaning party."

Adverb

• To or on the left side: Refers to direction or position.
  • Example: "Turn left at the next intersection."

Noun

• The side of the body or a space opposite the right: Refers to direction or placement.
  • Example: "The keys are on the left of the table."
• A political ideology that advocates social equality: Refers to progressive or socialist viewpoints.
  • Example: "The left is calling for reforms."

Verb

• To go away or depart: Refers to the action of leaving a place.
  • Example: "She left the office at noon."
• To abandon or neglect: Describes forsaking someone or something.
  • Example: "He left his old habits behind."