Meaning

Primary

Left Direction

Alternative

Left

Word Type

noun, の adjective

Explanation

The kanji and the word are exactly the same. That means they share meanings as well.

Reading

ひだり
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

Since this word is made up of a single kanji, it uses the kun'yomi reading. You haven't learned this reading yet, so here's a mnemonic to help you:

Imagine hearing someone to your left saying, "Hi Da'ri!" (ひだり) which is supposed to be "Hi There," or "Hi Dearie." You turn left and there's no one there. You hear it again, "Hi Da'ri!" Keep turning to the left until you find the person saying hi to you.

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 左にある

    to be on the left

    左にまがる

    to turn left

    左にいる

    to be on the left, to stay left

Context Sentences

左目のコンタクトレンズがない。

The left contact lens is missing.

わたしは、左ききです。

I’m left-handed.

入り口は左のドアですよ。

The entrance is the door on your left.

Kanji Composition