Right and left Meaning in English
expression
ˈɹaɪt/ /ˈænd/, /ənd/ /ˈɫɛft
RYT-uhnd-LEFT
ɹˈaɪt/ /ˈænd/ /lˈɛft
RYT-and-LEFT
Definition
This expression means in every direction, everywhere, or happening very frequently. It can also literally refer to both the right and left sides.
Usage & Nuances
Often used informally or in journalism to mean 'everywhere' or 'frequently,' e.g., 'firing right and left.' Sometimes literal (giving directions). Not always interchangeable with 'everywhere.' Usually more vivid or dramatic.
Spanish: a diestra y siniestraPortuguese (BR): para todo lado - à direita e à esquerdaPortuguese (PT): por todo o lado - à direita e à esquerdaChinese (Simplified): 到处 - 左右Chinese (Traditional): 到處 - 左右Hindi: हर जगह - दाएँ और बाएँArabic: في كل مكان - يمينًا ويسارًاBengali: ডানে-বামে - সর্বত্র (আলোচনার প্রসঙ্গে)Russian: направо и налевоJapanese: 右左に - あちこちでVietnamese: phải và trái - khắp nơi (nghĩa bóng)Korean: 오른쪽과 왼쪽 - 사방에서 (비유적 의미)Turkish: sağa solaUrdu: دائیں بائیںIndonesian: kanan dan kiri - ke mana-mana (makna kiasan)
Example Sentences
He handed out flyers right and left.
basic
Gifts were given right and left at the party.
basic
People were shouting right and left.
basic
She’s getting job offers right and left these days.
natural
Businesses were shutting down right and left during the crisis.
natural
Turn right and left at the next intersection to reach the building.
natural