LEFT FIELD Meaning and
Definition
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Left field is a term primarily used in baseball to describe the area of the field located to the left of the outfielder, when viewed from home plate. It specifically refers to the space between center field and the foul line down the third base side of the field. In a broader sense, however, "left field" also refers to anything that is unconventional, unexpected, or out of the ordinary.
In baseball, left field is one of the three positions in the outfield, along with center field and right field. It is typically occupied by a left-handed thrower, as their throwing arm is better suited to make the long throws to second base or third base. Left field is known to be a challenging position, as the ball tends to curve towards it when hit by a right-handed batter. This requires quick reflexes and excellent defense.
Outside of the baseball context, the phrase "out in left field" or simply "left field" is often used to describe something that is strange, peculiar, or completely unexpected – like a sudden and unexpected change in subject or a bizarre opinion. It implies that the person or thing being referred to is far removed from the normal or conventional. This could be observed in everyday conversations, where someone might say, "That idea is really out in left field" to express their opinion that the idea is weird or offbeat.
Common Misspellings for LEFT FIELD
- keft field
- peft field
- oeft field
- lwft field
- lsft field
- ldft field
- lrft field
- l4ft field
- l3ft field
- ledt field
- lect field
- levt field
- legt field
- lett field
- lert field
- lefr field
- leff field
- lefg field
- lefy field
Etymology of LEFT FIELD
The etymology of the phrase "left field" can be traced back to the sport of baseball. In baseball, the field is divided into three distinct sections: right field, center field, and left field. "Left field" refers to the area of the outfield on the left side, as viewed from home plate.
The figurative usage of "left field" emerged in the early 20th century in American English to describe something that is unexpected, eccentric, or outside of the mainstream. This association likely stems from the fact that hits to left field are considered less common and more unusual in baseball. Therefore, when something seems to come out of left field, it means that it is surprising or unexpected. Over time, the phrase has been adopted in general usage beyond the realm of baseball to convey a similar meaning.
Idioms with the word LEFT FIELD
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come out of left field
The idiom "come out of left field" means to do or say something unexpected, unusual, or surprising that catches others by surprise or seems unrelated to the current situation or topic. It refers to an unexpected occurrence or remark, likened to a baseball fielder catching a ball hit unexpectedly from the left field.
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be out in left field
The idiom "be out in left field" means to be completely mistaken, misunderstood, or having an opinion, idea, or belief that is completely unfounded or illogical. It refers to being far from the mainstream or normal viewpoint, similar to a baseball player being positioned in the left field, away from the action happening at home plate.
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out of left field
The idiom "out of left field" refers to something unexpected, surprising, or unrelated that catches someone off guard. It originally comes from baseball, where "left field" is typically the area of the outfield where fewer plays occur, so a ball unexpectedly coming from there would catch the players by surprise. In a broader sense, it means something that is unforeseen or comes from an unexpected or unconventional source.
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(way) out in left field
The idiom "out in left field" means to be out of touch with reality, out of sync with everyone else, or having strange or eccentric behavior.
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out in left field
The idiom "out in left field" means to be out of touch with reality or to have ideas that are unconventional or eccentric. It refers to someone who is not actively participating in or understanding a particular situation or conversation, often being disconnected or unaware of the topic at hand.
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come from left field
The idiom "come from left field" means to come unexpectedly or surprisingly, often referring to a sudden and unconventional idea, action, or statement that catches someone off-guard. It originates from baseball, where a ball coming from the left field is unexpected and can catch players off balance.
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be in left field
The idiom "be in left field" means to be out of touch, confused, or not understanding something correctly.
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from left field
The idiom "from left field" refers to something that is unexpected, surprising, or out of place. It is often used to describe ideas, comments, or actions that are unconventional or come out of nowhere.
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from (or out of) left field
The idiom "from (or out of) left field" refers to something that comes unexpectedly or without warning. It typically describes an idea, suggestion, or remark that is unusual, unconventional, or completely unrelated to the current topic of discussion. It originated from the sport of baseball, where left field is farthest from the normal action and unexpected plays can occur.
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left field
An unexpected or eccentric idea or action; something that is unusual, unconventional, or out of the ordinary.
Similar spelling words for LEFT FIELD
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