Pronunciation: [ˌɒn lˈɛft] (IPA) 
The correct spelling for the phrase "on left" is /ɒn lɛft/. The first word, "on," is pronounced as /ɒn/ which is a short vowel sound. The second word, "left," is pronounced as /lɛft/ with the long vowel sound "e" followed by the voiceless fricative "f" and the voiceless stop "t". It is important to spell the word "left" correctly as confusing it with "lift" or "live" can change the meaning of the sentence.
The phrase "on left" is an adverbial phrase commonly used to indicate the direction or position of something relative to the left side of a reference point. It generally describes the location of an object, person, or action in relation to the left side of an observer facing forward. The reference point can be a particular landmark, a specific orientation, or a spatial context.
When used in navigation or giving directions, "on left" suggests that the object or destination being referred to is situated to the left-hand side of the mentioned reference point. It serves as a directional indicator, helping individuals discern the appropriate path or location.
For example, if someone says, "The shopping mall is on the left," it indicates that the mall is positioned relative to the direction the speaker is facing, with the left side being the appropriate direction to follow. Similarly, if one is driving and receives instructions to "Take the next street on the left," it implies that the street will be encountered on the left-hand side when approaching the indicated point of decision.
In summary, "on left" serves as a linguistic tool to denote a position, object, or action situated in relation to the left side of a reference point, assisting in providing clear and concise directions or descriptions of spatial relationships.
The phrase "on left" can have various origins and meanings depending on the context. However, if you are referring to the phrase "on the left" in terms of direction or position, its etymology is related to the development of the English language and its association with right-handedness.
In Old English, the word for "left" was "lyft", which ultimately comes from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "weak" or "useless". This negative connotation might reflect the minority of left-handed individuals in many societies, leading to a perception of left as being less valued or less powerful compared to the right. Over time, this linguistic association has carried on and shaped the understanding of "left" in English.
The specific phrase "on the left" has its roots in Middle English and has been in use for centuries.
