When it comes to expressing the concept of “the day before yesterday” in Spanish, the most common and widely understood phrase is “antes de ayer.” However, language is ever-evolving, and different regions across the Spanish-speaking world may have their own unique ways of expressing this time frame. In this guide, we will cover both the formal and informal ways of saying “antes de ayer,” along with a few regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Antes de Ayer”
When speaking in formal settings or with people you are not very familiar with, it is best to use the standard phrase “antes de ayer.” This phrase is universally understood and will ensure effective communication. Here are a few examples:
- Example 1: El informe debía haber sido entregado antes de ayer. (The report was supposed to be submitted the day before yesterday.)
- Example 2: Tuvimos una reunión importante antes de ayer. (We had an important meeting the day before yesterday.)
- Example 3: Estuve en el cine antes de ayer con mis amigos. (I went to the movies the day before yesterday with my friends.)
Informal Ways to Say “Antes de Ayer”
In informal situations or when talking with friends and family, you may come across alternative expressions for “antes de ayer.” These variations add a touch of informality and regional flavor to your conversations. Let’s take a look at a few examples:
1. “Anteanoche”
In some Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Latin America, “anteanoche” is widely used in informal conversations to refer to “the day before yesterday.” This term is a contraction of “antes” (before) and “anoche” (last night), and it is a popular alternative to “antes de ayer.” For instance:
Example: Fuimos a cenar anteanoche. (We went out to dinner the day before yesterday.)
2. “Pasado Anteayer”
In some regions, another informal way to express “the day before yesterday” is by using the phrase “pasado anteayer.” Although not as common as “antes de ayer” or “anteanoche,” it is still used by some native speakers. For example:
Example: Llegué a casa en la tarde del pasado anteayer. (I arrived home in the afternoon the day before yesterday.)
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to expressing “the day before yesterday” in Spanish, the standard and universally understood phrase is “antes de ayer.” This phrase can be used both in formal and informal settings, ensuring effective communication. Additionally, some regions may have their own variations like “anteanoche” or “pasado anteayer” that add regional flavor and informality to the conversation. Regardless of the variant you use, make sure to consider the context and familiarity with the person you are speaking to. Now, go ahead and impress your Spanish-speaking friends with your understanding of different ways to say “antes de ayer”! ¡Buena suerte!
