ambidextrous

Ambidextrous refers to the ability to use the left and right hands with roughly equal skill. A person who is ambidextrous can perform a variety of tasks—such as writing, throwing, or manipulating objects—with either hand and experience little difference in speed or accuracy between hands. In common usage, the term is sometimes applied to individuals who are able to use either hand effectively for specific tasks, though true ambidexterity across many activities is rare.

Etymology and related terms: The term derives from Latin ambidexter, literally "both right-handed" (ambi- = both, dexter = right). The current sense emphasizes balanced dexterity rather than the mere ability to switch hands. Related terms include ambidexterity (the noun form), ambidexter (a person who is ambidextrous), and ambisinistrous, meaning clumsy with both hands. In some contexts, cross-dominance or mixed-handedness describes a pattern where a person favors different hands for different tasks rather than performing identically with both.

Prevalence and development: True ambidexterity is uncommon in both the general population and specialized domains. Some individuals develop greater proficiency in their non-dominant hand through practice, training, or repetitive use, while others may appear ambidextrous in routine activities but still prefer one hand for demanding tasks. Brain lateralization and neural plasticity underlie the ability; however, consistent bilateral performance across many complex tasks remains rare.