Which term describes away from a reference point?

• A. Proximal
• B. Distal
• C. Deep
• D. Lateral

Answer: (B)

Distal is the term that describes being farther from a reference point, typically the point of attachment of a limb to the trunk. This means things distal are farther from the trunk and closer to the end of the limb—for example, the wrist is distal to the elbow, and the toes are distal to the knee. Proximal is the opposite—closer to the trunk. Deep refers to depth from the body surface, and lateral describes a position toward the side away from the midline. So distal best captures the idea of being away from the reference point.