Word
lefty
Phoneticslefty
US/ˈɫɛfti/
UK/lˈɛfti/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a person who has left-wing political views. It is a casual way to describe someone who supports social equality and government programs.
n. a person whose political views align with the left wing of the political spectrum. Often carries a dismissive or derogatory tone depending on the speaker's intent.
Examples
“He has been a committed lefty since his university days.”
“The local newspaper is often accused of being run by lefties who ignore conservative perspectives.”
“While the term is frequently used as a casual shorthand among activists, it can also function as a pejorative in polarized political debates to oversimplify complex ideological positions.”
Examples
simple
“He has been a committed lefty since his university days.”
contextual
“The local newspaper is often accused of being run by lefties who ignore conservative perspectives.”
complex
“While the term is frequently used as a casual shorthand among activists, it can also function as a pejorative in polarized political debates to oversimplify complex ideological positions.”
Usage
Informal register; can be used neutrally within left-wing circles but is often used as a mild insult by political opponents.
Real-World Examples
“Tongue averages 21.5 against right-handers but 35.7 against lefties.” “He’s the UK’s leading lefty comedian – and for good reason.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/lefty