Distal indicates a specific position, usually far from a central point, in body-related terms. The distal joints in the finger are those farthest from the palm.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not Proximal
Distal is the opposite of 'proximal', which means nearest to the center or point of reference. In a diagram, mark the proximal and distal ends.
Pro Tip 3/3
Medical Context
Distal is mostly used in medical or anatomical contexts, less in everyday language. The surgeon focused on the distal region of the limb.