What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
posterolateral
Example
The posterolateral corner of the knee is a complex structure that provides stability to the joint. [posterolateral: adjective]
Example
The patient complained of pain in the posterolateral aspect of the ankle after twisting it during a soccer game. [posterolateral: adjective]
posterior
Example
The posterior compartment of the thigh contains the hamstring muscles. [posterior: adjective]
Example
The patient had a herniated disc in the posterior aspect of the lumbar spine. [posterior: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Posterior is more commonly used than posterolateral in everyday language and medical terminology. Posterior is a widely understood term that can be used in various contexts, while posterolateral is more specialized and limited to certain medical fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between posterolateral and posterior?
Both posterolateral and posterior are formal terms commonly used in medical terminology. However, posterolateral may be considered more technical and specialized due to its specificity and limited usage in certain medical fields.