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Laterality - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Laterality refers to the preference or dominance of one side of the body over the other, such as being right-handed or left-handed. It also relates to the specialization of brain hemispheres.

laterality

/ˌleɪtəˈræləti/ /ˌlætəˈræləti/

Definition:

Preference or dominance of one side of the body or brain over the other.

Synonyms:

sidedness, lateralization, dominance

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

ambidexterity, symmetry

Common Collocations:

hand laterality, cerebral laterality, functional laterality

Derivatives:

lateral, laterally

Usage Tips:

Use "laterality" to describe sidedness in biology, medicine, or psychology contexts.

Common Phrases:

left-brain laterality, right-hand laterality, crossed laterality

Etymology:

Derived from Latin "lateralis," meaning "of the side," combined with "-ity" denoting a state or condition.

Examples:

  • 1. The study of laterality helps understand brain function differences.
  • 2. Handedness is a common example of laterality in humans.
  • 3. Laterality can affect how athletes perform in sports.
  • 4. Some animals show clear laterality in limb preference.

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