LEFT Meaning and
Definition
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Left is an adjective and adverb with multiple denotations and connotations. In its most basic sense, left refers to the side opposite to the right when facing forward. It is often used in spatial contexts to indicate the direction or position that is opposite to right. In political terms, left typically denotes liberal or progressive ideologies, leaning towards social change and equal rights. It also refers to the more radical or socialist faction within a political party or movement.
Left can also be used as a noun, representing the side of the body that is opined to the right when a person is facing forward. Conversely, it can refer to the group of people or the political stance characterized by progressiveness and social equality.
Furthermore, left can serve as a verb, indicating the act of leaving or going away from a specific place or person. It suggests departing or abandoning something or someone. Additionally, left can function as a past participle and be used to describe the action of leaving behind, resulting in something remaining or being leftover.
Commonly associated with the direction opposite to right, left assumes various meanings and uses depending on context, encompassing politics, physical orientation, departure, and more.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for LEFT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for LEFT
Etymology of LEFT
The word left comes from the Old English word lyft, which means weak or obscure. It is related to the Old High German word luft, meaning weak or worthless. Over time, lyft evolved to mean the side of the body that is opposite of the right hand and eventually became left.
Idioms with the word LEFT
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pick (something) up where (one) left off
The idiom "pick (something) up where (one) left off" means to continue or resume an activity, task, or conversation from the exact point where it was previously stopped or paused.
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left wing
The idiom "left wing" refers to a political ideology or movement that supports or advocates for social equality, progressive reforms, and a greater role for the government in addressing social and economic issues. It typically stands in opposition to conservative or right-wing ideologies, promoting ideas such as economic redistribution, social justice, and collective decision-making.
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be left holding the bag
The idiom "be left holding the bag" means to be left with the responsibility, blame, or negative consequences for something that was originally supposed to be shared or handled by others. It often implies being left in a difficult or disadvantaged position.
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be left to (one's) own devices
The idiom "be left to (one's) own devices" means to be allowed to do things according to one's own preferences or instincts, without interference or supervision from others. It refers to being independent and self-reliant, relying on one's own resources and abilities to accomplish something.
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keep on the left side
The idiom "keep on the left side" refers to the instruction or reminder to stay or move to the left side of a given pathway, road, or system. It is commonly heard in contexts where there are designated lanes or directions for traffic flow, either on foot or in vehicles. This idiom emphasizes the importance of adhering to a specific side to ensure smooth and organized movement of individuals or vehicles.
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(way) out in left field
The idiom "(way) out in left field" is used to describe someone or something that is considered eccentric, unusual, or abnormal in comparison to others. It suggests that the person or thing is not connected to or in agreement with the mainstream or commonly accepted ideas or behaviors. It often implies that the individual's thoughts, actions, or opinions are strange or irrelevant. This idiom originates from the game of baseball, where "left field" is the area farthest from the center of play.
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take up where sb/sth left off
The idiomatic expression "take up where somebody/something left off" means to continue a task, activity, or conversation at the point where it was previously stopped or paused. It refers to resuming something that was left incomplete or unfinished by someone or something else.
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have two left feet
The idiom "have two left feet" refers to someone who lacks coordination or is clumsy when it comes to dancing or any physical activity in general. It implies that the person is unskilled and struggles to execute movements with grace and precision.
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be left holding the baby
The idiom "be left holding the baby" means to be left responsible for or burdened with a difficult situation, task, or problem that was not originally one's responsibility or concern. It implies being caught in an unfavorable or inconvenient position, often due to someone else's actions or negligence.
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be left hanging (in the air/in midair)
The idiom "be left hanging (in the air/in midair)" refers to a situation where someone or something is left unresolved, uncertain, or incomplete. It implies a sense of being suspended or left in suspense without any clear conclusion or definite answer. It often leaves the person feeling uneasy, anxious, or unsatisfied.
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right and left
The idiom "right and left" refers to something happening or being done frequently, continuously, or excessively, without any restrictions or limitations.
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be left at the post
To be left at the post means to be left far behind or at a disadvantage, especially in a competition or race. The phrase is often used metaphorically to describe someone who starts a project or task late and is already at a significant disadvantage compared to others who started earlier.
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left and right
The idiom "left and right" means in all directions or everywhere. It is often used to describe something that is happening or occurring frequently, or in a widespread manner. It implies a sense of abundance or an overwhelming amount of something occurring.
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be left hanging in the air
The idiom "be left hanging in the air" means to be left uncertain or unresolved, with no clear resolution or outcome. It implies a feeling of being in suspense or limbo, waiting for something to be decided or clarified.
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be left (out) in the cold
The idiom "be left (out) in the cold" means to be excluded, ignored, or neglected in a situation where others receive attention, benefit, or preferential treatment. It conveys the feeling of being unwanted or disregarded.
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the right hand doesn't know what the left hand's doing
The idiom "the right hand doesn't know what the left hand's doing" is used to describe a situation where different parts of an organization or different individuals within an organization are not properly communicating or coordinating with each other. It implies a lack of coordination, cooperation, or awareness within a group, resulting in confusion or inefficiency.
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from (or out of) left field
The idiom "from (or out of) left field" means something unexpected or surprising. It refers to a situation or statement that comes out of nowhere, catching people off guard or causing perplexity. It is derived from the world of baseball, where left field is typically the least anticipated direction from which a player or a ball would make a move.
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be left in the lurch
To be left in the lurch means to be abandoned, deceived, or left in a difficult or vulnerable position by someone or something on whom you relied or trusted. It implies being left without support or assistance when it is most needed, leaving one feeling frustrated, disappointed, or in a predicament.
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left to your own devices
The idiom "left to your own devices" means to be allowed or given the freedom to handle a situation or make decisions without any assistance or interference from others. It implies being self-reliant and independent in figuring out a solution or accomplishing something.
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better left unsaid
The idiom "better left unsaid" refers to something that is better not spoken or discussed, as it could be sensitive, inappropriate, or cause discomfort or harm by revealing it.
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two left feet
The idiom "two left feet" is used to describe a person who is clumsy or awkward, especially when it comes to dancing or coordinating physical movements. It implies a lack of coordination or gracefulness in one's movements.
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the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing
The idiom "the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing" means that different parts of an organization, group, or team, are not communicating or coordinating with each other effectively, leading to confusion, lack of coordination, or contradictory actions. It implies a lack of synchrony and knowledge between different parties involved in a particular task or situation.
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left out in the cold
The idiom "left out in the cold" means to be excluded or neglected, often in a social or professional context, resulting in feeling isolated or abandoned.
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hang a left
The idiom "hang a left" means to make a left turn, usually while driving or navigating. It implies a casual or informal manner of making the turn, often used to convey a sense of spontaneity or nonchalance.
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the left hand doesn't know what the right hand's doing
The idiom "the left hand doesn't know what the right hand's doing" means that there is a lack of coordination or communication within an organization or among individuals, resulting in confusion, mistakes, or inefficiency. It implies that different parts or people within a group are unaware of each other's actions or decisions, leading to chaos or disorganization.
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keep on the left(hand) side (of sth)
The idiom "keep on the left (hand) side (of sth)" refers to the instruction or guideline to maintain a position on the left side of a particular object, person, or path while moving or traveling. It often applies to traffic rules and regulations, specifying that individuals or vehicles should stay on the left side of the road, lane, or designated area while traveling in a particular direction. This idiom is commonly used in countries that follow left-hand traffic.
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who died and left you in charge
The idiom "who died and left you in charge?" is a rhetorical question typically used to express irritation or annoyance towards someone who is acting controlling, authoritative, or assuming a position of power without proper authorization or justification. It implies questioning the person's right or entitlement to be in charge or make decisions.
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swipe left
The idiom "swipe left" is often used in the context of online dating and refers to the action of moving or dismissing someone or something by swiping horizontally to the left on a touchscreen device. It typically implies rejecting or indicating disinterest in a potential match or option presented on a dating app or similar platform.
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come out of left field
The idiom "come out of left field" refers to something unexpected or surprising happening, often without any prior indication or preparation. It is generally used to describe an idea, situation, or statement that is completely unexpected or unconventional. The phrase originates from baseball where "left field" typically sees less action, so when a ball comes from that direction, it catches players off guard.
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from left field
The idiom "from left field" refers to something that is unexpected, surprising, or unrelated to the current topic or situation. It is often used to describe an idea, suggestion, or comment that comes seemingly out of nowhere and catches others off guard.
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right, left, and centre
The idiom "right, left, and centre" means everywhere or in all directions. It is often used to describe situations where something is happening or being done excessively or without restraint.
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be left holding the bag, at be left holding the baby
The idiom "be left holding the bag" or "be left holding the baby" means to be left responsible for a troublesome or difficult situation or task that was someone else's responsibility. It conveys the idea of being left with a burden or problem that you didn't cause or expect, forcing you to deal with the consequences on your own.
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be in left field
The idiom "be in left field" refers to when someone is completely out of touch with reality or the current topic of discussion. It suggests that the person's thoughts or statements are unrelated, irrelevant, or nonsensical, as if they were in a different field or realm of understanding.
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be out in left field
The idiom "be out in left field" means to be completely mistaken, clueless, or holding an opinion that is way off or detached from reality. It refers to someone being in a state of confusion, misunderstanding, or having ideas that are far-fetched or irrational.
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left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing
The idiom "left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing" is used to describe a situation where there is a lack of coordination, communication, or collaboration within an organization or among individuals. It implies that different people or departments are unaware of each other's actions, decisions, or plans, leading to confusion, inefficiency, or contradictory outcomes.
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be left in the dark (about something)
The idiom "be left in the dark" means to be uninformed or unaware about something, usually due to a lack of communication or concealment of information. It refers to being kept in a state of ignorance or being intentionally kept out of the loop.
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left coast
The idiom "left coast" is a term used to refer to the western coast of the United States, particularly the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. It originates from the geographical positioning of these states on the left-hand side of the US map when facing east. The term "left coast" is often associated with the liberal-leaning political and cultural tendencies of this region.
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take up where one left off
The idiom "take up where one left off" means to continue or resume something from the same point or situation where it was previously paused or interrupted. It implies picking up an activity, conversation, or relationship without any significant changes, as if no time had passed.
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have/be left with egg on/all over your face
To "have/be left with egg on/all over your face" means to be embarrassed or humiliated due to making a mistake or being proven wrong in front of others. It refers to the feeling of having something sticky, slimy, or messy like egg on one's face, symbolizing the awkwardness and embarrassment of the situation.
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left, right and centre
The idiom "left, right and centre" is used to describe something or someone that is occurring or happening in an excessive or unrestricted manner and from all directions. It implies that something is happening everywhere or to everyone without any discrimination or control.
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right and left, at right, left, and centre
The idiom "right and left" or "at right, left, and centre" is used to describe something that is happening or being done everywhere and by everyone, often in a forceful or widespread manner. It implies that something is happening or being distributed extensively, without any limits or boundaries.
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be left to (one's) own resources
To be left to one's own resources means to be in a situation where one must rely on and use their own abilities, skills, or available means to solve a problem or overcome a challenge. It implies the absence of external support or assistance, requiring the individual to be self-reliant and resourceful.
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left, right, and centre (also left and right or right and left)
The idiom "left, right, and centre" or alternatively "left and right" or "right and left," is used to describe a situation where someone or something is happening or appearing in many different places or to many different people, often simultaneously or excessively. It implies that the action or occurrence is widespread, abundant, or happening frequently without limitation.
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Elvis has left the building
The definition of the idiom "Elvis has left the building" refers to the conclusion of an event or situation, indicating that it is truly over and people should move on. It originates from announcements made during Elvis Presley's concerts to disperse his passionate fans after the show, assuring them that Elvis has departed and will not return for an encore. The phrase is now commonly used colloquially to emphasize that something is definitively finished or there is no possibility for further action.
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left field
The idiom "left field" refers to something that is unexpected, unusual, or out of the ordinary. It commonly describes an idea, thought, or action that seems strange or unrelated to a particular situation or topic. It can also suggest a person who behaves or thinks in a way that is eccentric or unconventional.
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hang a left (or right)
The idiom "hang a left (or right)" is used to describe taking a sharp or sudden turn in a specific direction, usually while driving or walking. It implies making a turn without hesitation or delay, often to avoid obstacles or reach a destination efficiently.
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two left feet, have
The idiom "two left feet, have" is used to describe someone who is awkward or clumsy in their movements, particularly when dancing or playing a sport. It implies a lack of coordination or gracefulness.
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come from left field
The idiom "come from left field" means to unexpectedly and surprisingly say or do something that is unrelated, unconventional, or unexpected in a given situation. It refers to something that is out of the ordinary or catches people off guard.
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exit stage left
The idiom "exit stage left" is usually used to describe an event or situation in which someone is trying to leave or escape, often in a hasty or covert manner, while drawing attention away from themselves. This phrase is commonly associated with theater or performance, where "stage left" refers to the left side of the stage as seen by the performers. Therefore, "exit stage left" essentially means to make an exit in a particular direction while on stage, but its figurative meaning extends to any situation wherein someone aims to make a discreet or inconspicuous departure.
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out in left field
The idiom "out in left field" refers to someone who is eccentric, unconventional, or completely out of touch with reality. It suggests that the person's thoughts, ideas, or actions are strange, irrational, or unrelated to the topic at hand.
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left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing, the
The idiom "left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing" is often used to describe a situation where different individuals or departments within an organization are not properly communicating or coordinating their actions. It implies a lack of coordination or cooperation, resulting in confusion, errors, or inefficiency.
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out of left field
The idiom "out of left field" refers to something that is unexpected, surprising, or unconventional. It means that something has come from an unexpected or unfamiliar source, catching people off guard or confusing them.
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the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing
The idiom "the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing" refers to a situation where different parts of an organization or individuals within it are not communicating or coordinating properly, resulting in confusion or inefficiency. It implies a lack of coordination, collaboration, or awareness between people or departments working in the same organization or towards the same goal.
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hang a left/right
The idiom "hang a left/right" means to make a sharp or abrupt turn to the left or right while driving or navigating a route. It is often used informally to give directions or indicate which direction to take.
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left-handed compliment
A left-handed compliment is a remark that seems to be a compliment but could also be interpreted as an insult or criticism.
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left, right, and center
The phrase "left, right, and center" is used to indicate that something is happening or occurring in all directions or from all sides. It can also refer to someone or something being attacked or criticized from all angles. It is often used to emphasize the widespread or all-encompassing nature of a situation.
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left-handed monkey wrench
A non-existent or mythical tool, used humorously to refer to a tool that doesn't exist or is unnecessary.
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eyes right (or left)
The idiom "eyes right (or left)" is a command given in military contexts for individuals to turn their gaze in a specific direction, typically as a sign of respect or to acknowledge a superior officer or an important figure passing by.
Similar spelling words for LEFT
- Lafte,
- LVAD,
- Levet,
- leifite,
- let,
- cleft,
- Levite,
- lovato,
- Left-off,
- Luffed,
- leveed,
- Leafet,
- lafitte,
- top-left,
- LVETI,
- LAFTA,
- lovette,
- lift-off,
- Laved,
- Loveday,
- LFD,
- lovedu,
- Lovetta,
- Loafed,
- loved,
- livoti,
- llevado,
- LAFD,
- LVT,
- leafed,
- LOFTI,
- loft,
- LHFT,
- LVEDAI,
- WLFD,
- livity,
- LIFTE,
- laphet,
- lovat,
- Laveda,
- Leveta,
- L2FET,
- levitt,
- leftie,
- be-loved,
- lofty,
- lavaud,
- un-loved,
- laffitte,
- livid,
- lafita,
- deft,
- LUFT,
- lovett,
- liefde,
- Laffit,
- far-left,
- left-arm,
- Lavetta,
- LFT,
- laffite,
- leaved,
- levity,
- lepiota,
- levett,
- LVEJT,
- lovitt,
- LFFET,
- HLVD,
- livadeia,
- leavitt,
- Lived,
- Levied,
- lefty,
- loftier,
- CE-LIFD,
- livedo,
- -let,
- re-lived,
- lent,
- Lavada,
- LOFAAD,
- levit,
- H/LIFT,
- Lavette,
- LLFET,
- Laveta,
- Laft,
- lowfat,
- up-lift,
- Laughed,
- lift,
- levitte,
- lived-in,
- DC-LVDT,
- PEP/LVET,
- lyft,
- lafite.
Conjugate verb Left
CONDITIONAL
I
would leave
we
would leave
you
would leave
he/she/it
would leave
they
would leave
FUTURE
I
will leave
we
will leave
you
will leave
he/she/it
will leave
they
will leave
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have left
we
will have left
you
will have left
he/she/it
will have left
they
will have left
PAST
I
left
we
left
you
left
he/she/it
left
they
left
PAST PERFECT
I
had left
we
had left
you
had left
he/she/it
had left
they
had left
PRESENT
I
leave
we
leave
you
leave
he/she/it
leaves
they
leave
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have left
we
have left
you
have left
he/she/it
has left
they
have left
I
am leaving
we
are leaving
you
are leaving
he/she/it
is leaving
they
are leaving
I
was leaving
we
were leaving
you
were leaving
he/she/it
was leaving
they
were leaving
I
will be leaving
we
will be leaving
you
will be leaving
he/she/it
will be leaving
they
will be leaving
I
have been leaving
we
have been leaving
you
have been leaving
he/she/it
has been leaving
they
have been leaving
I
had been leaving
we
had been leaving
you
had been leaving
he/she/it
had been leaving
they
had been leaving
I
will have been leaving
we
will have been leaving
you
will have been leaving
he/she/it
will have been leaving
they
will have been leaving
I
would have left
we
would have left
you
would have left
he/she/it
would have left
they
would have left
I
would be leaving
we
would be leaving
you
would be leaving
he/she/it
would be leaving
they
would be leaving
I
would have been leaving
we
would have been leaving
you
would have been leaving
he/she/it
would have been leaving
they
would have been leaving
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