左右

zuǒyòu

left and right

HSK 4

Character Breakdown

Usage of 左右

The word "左右" primarily means "left and right" when referring to physical directions or positions. It is often used to describe spatial relationships, such as standing on someone's left and right sides.

Besides the literal meaning, "左右" is frequently used to express approximation or estimation, similar to "about" or "around" in English. For example, when talking about quantities, distances, or time, "左右" follows the number to indicate an approximate value.

Another common usage is in the phrase "左右为难," which means to be in a dilemma or difficult situation, literally "difficult to choose between left and right."

Common Collocations

Notes

When used to indicate approximation, "左右" usually comes after the number or quantity. It is a neutral expression and widely used in both spoken and written Chinese.

Avoid confusing "左右" with just "" or "," which only refer to one side. "左右" always implies both sides or an approximation depending on context.

Example Sentences

这条路有五公里左右。

Zhè tiáo lù yǒu wǔ gōnglǐ zuǒyòu.

This road is about five kilometers long.

他左右为难,不知道该怎么办。

Tā zuǒyòu wéinán, bù zhīdào gāi zěnme bàn.

He is in a dilemma and doesn't know what to do.

请你站在我左右两边。

Qǐng nǐ zhàn zài wǒ zuǒyòu liǎng biān.

Please stand on my left and right sides.