The term anterior (ventral) describes which direction?

• A. Nearer the back
• B. Toward the midline
• C. Nearer the front
• D. Upward toward the head

Answer: (C)

Anterior (ventral) describes a direction toward the front of the body. In the standard anatomical position, the face and chest face forward, so the anterior surface is the front side of the body. The term ventral is commonly used as a synonym for anterior, especially in humans. So, toward the front is the correct idea. For contrast, the back is the posterior side, toward the midline is medial, and toward the head is superior.