What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
paramedian
Example
The paramedian incision is commonly used in spinal surgeries. [paramedian: adjective]
Example
The paramedian artery runs parallel to the spinal column. [paramedian: noun]
lateral
Example
The lateral incision is commonly used in hip replacement surgeries. [lateral: adjective]
Example
The lateral ventricles are located on either side of the brain. [lateral: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lateral is more commonly used than paramedian in everyday language, especially in non-medical contexts where it can refer to anything situated towards the side of something else.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between paramedian and lateral?
Both paramedian and lateral are formal terms used primarily in medical contexts. However, lateral may be more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts outside of medicine.
