Translation guide
In Japanese, 'right and left' is most naturally expressed as 左右 (sayuu), a compound noun meaning both sides or lateral direction. It is used in everyday phrases for looking both ways, turning left and right, and describing things on both sides.
Referring to the two sides together, or the lateral direction.
The standard compound noun for 'left and right' or 'both sides'. Used in many common expressions.
Please check left and right.
Trees are planted on both sides of the road.
Literally 'right and left'. Used when emphasizing the two distinct directions, often in instructions or comparisons.
Don't mix up right and left.
The action of checking for traffic or danger by looking left and right.
Describing motion that alternates between left and right directions.
Describing objects or people located on the left and right sides of something.
Using 'right and left' to mean 'sway' or 'control', as in 'to have someone under one's thumb'.
The phrase 'right and left' is inclusive of both sides, while 'right or left' (右か左か) implies a choice. Using 左右 is always inclusive.
In casual speech, when telling someone to look both ways, Japanese often drops the object: ちゃんと見て！ (Look properly!). The context makes 'left and right' understood.
I told the child, 'Look right and left before crossing.'
He ran around left and right.
通りの両側に店が並んでいる。
Shops line both sides of the street.
He has his subordinates under his thumb.