Gaining proficiency in expressing the concept of “yesterday” in Japanese is a crucial step towards mastering the language. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways of saying “yesterday” in Japanese, providing you with various tips and examples. While regional variations are not common for this particular word, we will mention them if they exist. Let’s dive in!
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Informal Ways to Say “Yesterday”
In casual and friendly conversations, a simple way to say “yesterday” is through using the word “kinou” (きのう). This term is used primarily in spoken Japanese and is suitable for everyday conversations among friends, family members, and colleagues in informal environments. Here are a few examples:
1. きのう、友達と映画を観に行ったよ。
Translation: Yesterday, I went to see a movie with a friend.2. パーティーはきのうどうだった？
Translation: How was the party yesterday?3. きのうの天気は良かったね。
Translation: The weather was good yesterday, right?
By using “kinou,” you effortlessly integrate the concept of “yesterday” into your conversations, establishing an informal tone that allows for casual interactions with native Japanese speakers.
Formal Ways to Say “Yesterday”
When engaging in formal discussions or academic contexts, it is essential to utilize more polite expressions. In such situations, the most common formal term for “yesterday” is “sakujitsu” (昨日). Employing “sakujitsu” ensures that you maintain proper respect and decorum while communicating. Consider the following examples:
1. 昨日、大切な会議がありました。
Translation: Yesterday, there was an important meeting.2. 昨日のニュースは興味深いものでした。
Translation: Yesterday’s news was very interesting.3. 昨日はどちらに行かれましたか？
Translation: Where did you go yesterday?
Using “sakujitsu” expresses your professionalism and conveys a respectful tone to your audience or interlocutor, making it ideal for formal settings.
Regional Variations
While variations in expressing “yesterday” are relatively uncommon across regions, certain dialects might include alternative terms. In the standard Japanese language, “kinou” and “sakujitsu” are understood and accepted throughout the country. Nevertheless, a few regions have unique phrases that can replace these standard options. For instance, some people in the Kansai region might use “irai” (いらい) instead of “kinou.” In the Tohoku region, “kezu” (けーず) is occasionally used as a dialectical variant. These regional variations are not as frequently encountered, but it’s beneficial to be aware of them to better comprehend diverse conversations in Japan.
Conclusion
Mastering the correct ways to say “yesterday” in Japanese is a valuable skill that enhances your language proficiency. By using the informal term “kinou” in casual conversations and the formal term “sakujitsu” in more professional or academic contexts, you can effectively express the concept of “yesterday.” Remember to adapt your language choice based on the formality of the situation. While regional variations are not common, knowing about dialectical alternatives such as “irai” in the Kansai region and “kezu” in the Tohoku region allows for a more comprehensive understanding of Japanese conversations. Keep practicing and incorporating these expressions into your daily language usage to become more fluent in Japanese!
