Learning how to express the concept of “the day before yesterday” in Japanese is a crucial step toward fluency. Although it may seem like a simple phrase, the Japanese language offers various ways to convey this idea, depending on the level of formality and regional variations. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of saying “the day before yesterday” in Japanese, providing you with useful tips and numerous examples to deepen your understanding.
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Formal Expressions:
When it comes to formal Japanese, there are two commonly used phrases to express “the day before yesterday”: “ototoi” (おととい) and “ototoi no hi” (おとといの日). Both phrases are interchangeable, and it’s a matter of personal preference which one to use. Let’s take a closer look at their usage, along with some contextual examples:
- “Ototoi” (おととい)
This is the shorter and more commonly used formal expression to refer to “the day before yesterday” in Japanese. Remember that “ototoi” is a standalone word and doesn’t require an additional noun or particle to accompany it. Here’s an example:
前の日は忙しかったですが、おとといはゆっくり過ごしました。
(Mae no hi wa isogashikatta desu ga, ototoi wa yukkuri sugoshimashita.)
“The day before yesterday, even though the previous day was busy, I relaxed.” - “Ototoi no hi” (おとといの日)
This phrase includes the word “hi” (日), meaning “day,” which adds a slightly more formal tone to the expression. It can be used interchangeably with “ototoi” and is more suitable for written language or formal speeches. Here’s an example:
昨日は会議がありましたが、おとといの日は何も特別な予定はありませんでした。
(Kinou wa kaigi ga arimashita ga, ototoi no hi wa nanimo tokubetsu na yotei wa arimasen deshita.)
“Yesterday, there was a meeting, but the day before yesterday, I didn’t have any special plans.”
Informal Expressions:
In informal Japanese, the preferred way to say “the day before yesterday” is by using the phrase “ototoi” (おととい), just like in formal language. However, informally, it is acceptable to drop the “no hi” (の日) part. Let’s see how this works with some examples:
- “Ototoi” (おととい)
In casual conversations, it’s common to drop the “no hi” (の日) when addressing “the day before yesterday.”
友達と映画を見に行ったのはおとといだ。
(Tomodachi to eiga o mini itta no wa ototoi da.)
“I went to see a movie with a friend the day before yesterday.”
Additional Tips:
Here are a few extra tips to enhance your understanding of expressing “the day before yesterday” in Japanese:
- Vocabulary Variation: In some regional dialects, you may encounter different expressions for “the day before yesterday.” However, the phrases mentioned earlier, “ototoi” and “ototoi no hi,” are widely understood throughout Japan, making them the safest choices to employ.
- Politeness: Remember to adjust your speech level according to the situation. Formal expressions are more appropriate when speaking with superiors, teachers, or strangers, while informal expressions are better suited for friends, family, or close acquaintances.
- Writing Style: If you are writing a formal document or an email, it’s recommended to use “ototoi no hi” for clarity purposes. In general, opt for the longer form when maintaining a more polite writing style.
- Listening Practice: To reinforce your listening skills, watch Japanese movies, dramas, or listen to podcasts where native speakers engage in conversations. Pay attention to how they naturally use “the day before yesterday.”
By mastering different ways of expressing “the day before yesterday” in Japanese, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively and navigate various social situations. Practice using these phrases in context and develop a natural feel for their usage. Enjoy your language learning journey, and don’t be afraid to explore additional linguistic nuances along the way!
