CSS left Property

CSS Reference Complete CSS Reference

Example

Set the left edge of the image 5px to the right of the left edge of its containing element:

img
{
position:absolute;
left:5px;
}

Try it yourself »

Definition and Usage

For absolutely positioned elements, the left property sets the left edge of an element to a unit to the left/right of the left edge of its containing element.

For relatively positioned elements, the left property sets the left edge of an element to a unit to the left/right to its normal position.

Note: If "position:static", the left property has no effect.

Default value: auto
Inherited: no
Version: CSS2
JavaScript syntax: object.style.left="50px"

Browser Support

Internet Explorer Firefox Opera Google Chrome Safari

The left property is supported in all major browsers.

Note: No versions of Internet Explorer (including IE8) support the property value "inherit".

Property Values

Value Description
auto Lets the browser calculate the left edge position. This is default
length Sets the left edge position in px, cm, etc. Negative values are allowed
% Sets the left edge position in % of containing element. Negative values are allowed
inherit Specifies that the value of the left property should be inherited from the parent element

Related Pages

CSS tutorial: CSS Positioning

HTML DOM reference: left property

CSS Reference Complete CSS Reference