Gaining fluency in a language means not only learning individual words and phrases but also understanding the nuances of expressing time. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “last year” in English, including formal and informal expressions. However, before diving into the different translations, it’s helpful to familiarize ourselves with the concept of time in English.
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The Concept of Time in English
English speakers typically understand time in relation to the present. There are three primary tenses: past, present, and future. To express the past, we generally use the simple past tense. However, when specifying “last year,” we require a bit more precision. Here are several ways to convey this concept in both formal and informal settings:
Formal Expressions:
- “The previous year”: This expression is widely used in formal contexts, such as professional settings, business meetings, or academic discussions. It emphasizes a clear and concise way of referring to the year that has just ended. For example, “The sales figures in the previous year were promising.”
- “The calendar year before this one”: This phrase is typically used when the speaker wants to be extra precise or when discussing fiscal years. For instance, “The company’s revenue experienced a significant drop in the calendar year before this one.”
- “In the year that just passed”: This phrase is more poetic and formal in nature. It might be used in speeches or formal written texts to create a more elegant tone. For instance, “In the year that just passed, we witnessed tremendous growth and development in our community.”
Informal Expressions:
- “Last year”: The most common and straightforward way to refer to the previous year in both casual conversations and writing. It is widely understood and used by people of all ages and backgrounds. For example, “Last year was a challenging time for many of us.”
- “This time last year”: If you want to refer to a specific point in the past, you can use this phrase. It’s commonly used in informal settings to evoke nostalgia or reminisce about a particular moment. For instance, “This time last year, we were all enjoying a wonderful vacation on the beach.”
- “Back in [year]”: A colloquial expression used to emphasize the time that has passed. This phrase is typically used when recounting personal experiences or events. For example, “Back in 2019, I had the opportunity to travel extensively.”
Additional Tips and Examples:
Now that you are familiar with both formal and informal expressions for saying “last year” in English, here are some additional tips and examples to help solidify your understanding:
TIP 1: The context of your conversation or writing will often guide your choice of expression. If you’re unsure about which form to use, it’s always safe to go with “last year” in informal settings and “previous year” in formal ones.
TIP 2: When using the phrase “last year,” make sure to provide additional context or clarify if you are referring to the literal previous year or a specific point in the past.
Example 1: Last year, I went on an unforgettable trip to Europe. (Referring to the previous calendar year.)
Example 2: This time last year, we were celebrating your birthday at that cozy café downtown. (Referring to a specific point in the past.)
Example 3: In the year that just passed, our team achieved remarkable success. (Emphasizing the elegance of the expression.)
Example 4: Back in 2018, I was a student at that university. (Adding a colloquial touch to the sentence.)
Example 5: The sales figures in the previous year were higher than anticipated, indicating growth. (Using a formal expression to discuss business matters.)
By using these expressions appropriately, you will be able to confidently and accurately convey the concept of “last year” in various social and professional contexts. Remember that fluency in a language comes with practice, so seize every opportunity to use these phrases and observe native speakers to fine-tune your language skills.
With this guide, you are now equipped to handle different scenarios where you need to express “last year” in English. Whether you opt for the more formal expressions in professional settings or use more casual phrases in everyday conversations, your language skills will shine. Keep up the great work, and don’t forget to have fun along the way!
