English Reference

Word

prefrontal

Phoneticspre·frontal

US/pɹiˈfɹəntəɫ/

UK/pɹɪfɹˈʌntəl/

Definition

adj. relating to the part of the brain at the front of the head. This area is responsible for thinking, making plans, and controlling your behavior.

adj. relating to or situated in the front part of the brain, specifically the region behind the forehead. Often used in medical or psychological contexts to describe cognitive functions like decision-making and impulse control.

Examples

“The prefrontal cortex helps you make good choices.”

“Damage to the prefrontal area of the brain can lead to significant changes in a person's personality and ability to plan.”

“Neuroscientists have long studied how the prefrontal lobes develop during adolescence, as these structures are essential for the maturation of executive functions and social judgment.”

Examples

simple

“The prefrontal cortex helps you make good choices.”

contextual

“Damage to the prefrontal area of the brain can lead to significant changes in a person's personality and ability to plan.”

complex

“Neuroscientists have long studied how the prefrontal lobes develop during adolescence, as these structures are essential for the maturation of executive functions and social judgment.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “prefrontal” in context.

01. prefrontal cortex

Real-World Examples

“Chronic stress also reshapes the prefrontal cortex, impairing our ability to manage stress overall .”
The Conversation 31 Jul 2026
“The two brain regions we closely watched were the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the medial prefrontal cortex.”
The Conversation 3 Aug 2026

This entry

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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/prefrontal

English Reference