Definition

Relating to or occurring on the opposite side of the body from a specified point.

Example

The doctor explained that the pain in the left arm could be contralateral to the injury on the right side.

Conversation

Did you know that injuries can sometimes affect contralateral parts of the body?

Really? I never thought about it that way.

Yeah, it’s interesting how one side can influence the other.

That makes sense, especially in sports injuries.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contralateral → It is formed from "contra-" (meaning against) and "lateralis" (from "latus", meaning side). The word describes something that is on the opposite side, particularly in relation to a specific point or structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'against' ('contra-') and 'side' ('lateralis') to remember that 'contralateral' refers to something on the opposite side.

Visually Confused Words