Gaining knowledge about different phrases and expressions in a new language is a fantastic way to enhance your language skills and connect with native speakers. If you’re wondering how to say “last night” in Japanese, this comprehensive guide will assist you in learning both the formal and informal ways, along with some useful tips and examples.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Last Night”
1. Kemuri
This formal expression translates to “last night” in Japanese. It is a commonly used phrase in formal settings and situations. For example:
昨夜、私はとても良い寝眠りを得ました。
Kemuri, watashi wa totemo yoi nemuri o emashita.Last night, I had a very good sleep.
2. Sakuban
Sakuban is another formal way to say “last night” in Japanese. It can be used in various contexts, such as business meetings, presentations, or any formal conversation. For instance:
昨晩、ディナーを外で食べました。
Sakuban, dinā o soto de tabemashita.Last night, I had dinner outside.
Informal Ways to Say “Last Night”
1. Yuube / Yuu-ban
If you’re looking for a casual and informal way to express “last night,” ‘yuube’ is the go-to word. It is widely used in everyday conversations among friends, family, and acquaintances. Here’s an example:
昨夜、映画を見に行きましたよ。
Yuube, eiga o mi ni ikimashita yo.Last night, I went to watch a movie.
2. Kyō no yoru
Kyō no yoru is another informal way of saying “last night” in Japanese. It can be used in a casual setting among friends or colleagues. For example:
今朝、ちょっと遅くまで遊んでたんだよ。
Kyō no yoru, chotto osoku made asondeta n da yo.I was playing until late last night, you know.
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you better understand the usage and application of “last night” in Japanese:
1. Verb Conjugation with “Last Night”
When using verbs in association with “last night,” it’s important to conjugate them appropriately. For example:
- 見る (miru) – to see
- 見ました (mimashita) – saw
- 昨晩見ました (sakuban mimashita) – saw last night
2. Describing Activities
When talking about activities or events that occurred “last night,” you can include verbs to indicate the specific action. For instance:
- 飲みに行きました (nomi ni ikimashita) – went for a drink
- 遊んでいました (asonde imashita) – was playing
- ダンスを踊りました (dansu o odorimashita) – danced
3. Variation in Vocabulary
While the phrases mentioned above are the most common ways to say “last night” in Japanese, regional variations can exist. However, these variations are relatively minimal, and the formal and informal options provided will suffice in most conversations.
It’s important to note that regional dialects may influence certain preferences when it comes to specific expressions, so being a keen listener and observer will help you adapt accordingly.
In Conclusion
Congratulations on discovering how to say “last night” in Japanese! You now have various options at your disposal, whether you’re looking to express it formally or informally. Remember to practice using these phrases in different contexts to improve your fluency and familiarity with the language.
Embracing new words and expressions is an exciting part of language learning, and it significantly contributes to your ability to communicate naturally with native speakers. Have fun incorporating “last night” into your Japanese conversations, whether you’re discussing your experiences, making plans, or simply sharing stories with friends.
