distal

/'sistəl/

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Word: Distal

Part of Speech: Adjective

Basic Definition: "Distal" is a word used to describe something that is located far away from a central point or the main part of something, especially in relation to the body. In simpler terms, if you think of your arm, the fingers are distal to the shoulder because they are farther away from where the arm attaches to the body.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "distal" when talking about body parts or when describing things that are located further from a central point. It is commonly used in medical, biological, or anatomical contexts.

Example:

• "The distal end of the femur is the part of the thigh bone that is farthest from the body’s center."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, "distal" might be used in discussions about anatomy, surgery, or physical therapy. For instance, a doctor might say, "After the injury, we need to focus on the distal parts of the limb for rehabilitation."

Word Variants:

• Distally (adverb): Used to describe an action that is done in a distal manner.
  • Example: "The surgeon made an incision distally to avoid damaging the main artery."
• Distalness (noun): The state of being distal.
  • Example: "The distalness of the injury required special consideration during treatment."

Different Meanings:

While "distal" primarily relates to anatomy, it can also be used in other fields, such as: - In Geography: It can refer to locations that are far from a central feature (like a city). - In Science: It can describe parts of a process or system that are far from the initial point of action or origin.

Synonyms:

• Farther away
• Remote
• Peripheral (when referring to something that is situated away from the center, not necessarily in a medical sense)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

"Distal" does not have particular idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, as it is a specific term primarily used in technical language. However, it can be used in phrases related to distance or position, like: - "The distal region of the garden is less frequented." - "She focused on the distal aspects of the project."

Summary:

Remember, "distal" is about distance from a central point, especially regarding body parts.

Academic

Adjective

1. directed away from the midline or mesial plane of the body
2. situated farthest from point of attachment or origin, as of a limb or bone