string

LTRIM()

Removes leading (left-side) characters, usually spaces, from a string.

Description

LTRIM strips characters from the start (left) of a string. By default it removes spaces, which is useful for cleaning fixed-width or padded input. You can pass a second argument to remove specific leading characters.

Syntax

LTRIM(string)
LTRIM(string, chars)

Parameters

Name	Description	Optional
string	The text to trim on the left.	No
chars	Characters to remove (default space).	Yes

Return Type

Returns a VARCHAR.

Examples

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LTRIM vs TRIM

LTRIM only removes from the left; TRIM removes from both ends. Use RTRIM for the right side.

Common Mistakes

Expecting both sides trimmed. LTRIM leaves trailing spaces; use TRIM for both.
Wrong argument order. In most engines the characters to remove come second: LTRIM(string, chars).
Trimming the middle. It only touches the start; use REPLACE for inside.