Translation guide
The English phrase 'left-hand side' refers to the side on the left. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with 左側 (hidarigawa) or 左 (hidari). The choice depends on context, such as physical position, written layout, or figurative use.
Referring to the left side of a physical object, person, or space.
The most common and neutral way to say 'left-hand side' for physical objects or locations.
左側に立ってください。
Please stand on the left-hand side.
その箱の左側にラベルが貼ってあります。
There is a label on the left-hand side of that box.
Often used in casual speech or when the context is clear. Can mean 'left' or 'left-hand side'.
左に曲がってください。
Turn to the left-hand side, please.
机の左にペンがあります。
There is a pen on the left-hand side of the desk.
Literally 'left hand', but can refer to the left-hand side, especially in relation to one's body or direction.
左手に公園が見えます。
You can see a park on your left-hand side.
Referring to the left portion of a page, image, or interface.
Works for both physical and digital layouts.
画面の左側にメニューがあります。
There is a menu on the left-hand side of the screen.
書類の左側に署名してください。
Please sign on the left-hand side of the document.
Shorter and common in instructions or casual contexts.
Specifically means 'left edge' or 'far left side', used when precision is needed.
Used in expressions like 'on the left-hand side of an equation' or 'left side of a political spectrum'.
Mathematical term for the left-hand side of an equation.
方程式の左辺を計算してください。
Please calculate the left-hand side of the equation.
Can be used in non-mathematical abstract contexts, like political left.
Who is the person on the left-hand side of the photo?
表の左端に日付を入力してください。
Please enter the date on the left-hand side edge of the table.
彼は政治的に左側に位置している。
He is positioned on the left-hand side politically.