lower limbs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lower limbs" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in medical, anatomical, or fitness contexts to refer to the legs and feet of a person or animal. Example: "The physical therapist focused on strengthening the lower limbs to improve the patient's mobility."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most injuries occur on the lower limbs and buttocks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Who'd have thought one day the cold would affect my lower limbs so?

The Guardian

The lower limbs and arched feet reflected traits "for improved terrestrial locomotor performance," the team reported.

The New York Times

More than 28percentt of all injuries were to the lower limbs.

The New York Times

Signals from the feet and lower limbs do not reach the brain to promote balance.

The New York Times

All participants must have a disability which involves function loss of both upper and lower limbs.

The Guardian - Sport

Great for minimising tiny bumps on the upper arms, and dry, flaky skin on lower limbs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Many of the most seriously wounded had sustained damage to their lower limbs, he said.

The Guardian

Mooshum, who had rarely seen a woman's lower limbs, dropped behind, delighted.

The New Yorker

Ten cadaveric lower limbs were dissected.

Journal of Experimental Orthopaedics

Results: Muscle strength of both lower limbs did not change.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In medical or scientific writing, use "lower limbs" for precision. In general conversation, "legs" is often more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "lower limbs" in casual conversation. It can sound overly formal or clinical when "legs" would be more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lower limbs" functions primarily as a noun phrase, referring to the anatomical structures of the legs and feet. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is commonly used to describe injuries, disabilities, or other conditions affecting these body parts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lower limbs" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term, particularly within the science and medical fields to denote the legs and feet. Ludwig confirms its acceptability and common usage in various reliable sources. While "lower limbs" serves as a precise anatomical term, it's important to consider the context and choose the appropriate level of formality; in casual conversation, "legs" is often a more suitable alternative. The phrase's frequent occurrence in scientific literature underscores its importance in medical descriptions, research, and injury reports.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legs

This is a more common and less formal term for "lower limbs".

lower extremities

This phrase is a direct synonym, offering a slightly different emphasis.

legs and feet

This phrase breaks down "lower limbs" into its constituent parts.

lower body

This phrase refers to the part of the body below the waist, including the hips and buttocks, not just the limbs.

hind limbs

This term is typically used when referring to animals.

weight-bearing limbs

This describes the function of the "lower limbs" in supporting the body.

pedal extremities

This refers specifically to the feet as the end of the "lower limbs".

locomotor extremities

This term emphasizes the role of the limbs in movement.

ambulatory appendages

This is a more technical and less common way to refer to limbs used for walking.

inferior members

This is a less common and more formal anatomical term.

FAQs

What is the difference between "lower limbs" and "legs"?

"Lower limbs" is a more formal, anatomical term, while "legs" is a more common, everyday term. Use "lower limbs" in medical or scientific contexts for precision.

When is it appropriate to use "lower limbs"?

It's appropriate in medical, scientific, and technical contexts where precision is needed. For everyday conversation, "legs" is generally preferred.

What are some alternative ways to refer to "lower limbs"?

Depending on the context, you could use "legs", "lower extremities", or even "hind limbs" (when referring to animals).

Is "lower limbs" a common phrase?

Yes, "lower limbs" is a common phrase, particularly in medical and scientific literature, as confirmed by Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples.