Yesterday Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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yesterday
[ˈjɛstərˌdeɪ ]
Definitions
time
On the day before today
Synonyms
the day before today, the day past, the previous day.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| yesterday |
Used in everyday conversation and writing to refer to the day before the current day.
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| the day before today |
More formal or descriptive way to refer to yesterday, often used in written or spoken contexts requiring clarity or emphasis.
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| the previous day |
Often used in a narrative or reporting context to refer to the day before the current day, helpful for clarity in timelines.
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| the day past |
Less common, slightly archaic, and more poetic or literary expression to refer to yesterday.
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Examples of usage
- I saw him yesterday at the grocery store.
- She was feeling sick yesterday and couldn't come to work.
time
The day before today
Synonyms
the day before today, the day past, the previous day.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| yesterday |
Commonly used in everyday conversation and writing to refer to the day before today.
|
| the previous day |
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. It implies a reference to a timeline, often in stories, reports, or schedules.
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| the day past |
Quite formal and rarely used in modern English. It might be found in literature or historical contexts.
|
| the day before today |
More formal and less common. It might be used in certain official documents or more detailed descriptions.
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Examples of usage
- Yesterday was a busy day for me.
- I can't believe it's already yesterday.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, reflections on yesterday are important for traditions and storytelling, often symbolizing lessons learned.
- Songs and works of art often use 'yesterday' to evoke emotions about lost time or past love.
Psychology
- Studies show that recalling yesterday helps individuals process emotions and experiences, aiding in personal reflection.
- The ability to reflect on the past is crucial for mental health, helping people to make sense of their experiences and grow.
Literature
- The concept of yesterday has been a powerful literary theme, often representing regret and nostalgia, exemplified in works by Shakespeare and modern novelists.
- In poetry, 'yesterday' often conveys a longing for what once was, emphasizing the passage of time.
Everyday Use
- People often use 'yesterday' to mark the emotional impact of events, providing context for discussions about personal change.
- In planning and scheduling, understanding what happened yesterday helps in making decisions today.
Origin of 'yesterday'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'gēostran dæg,' where 'gēostran' means 'yesterday' and 'dæg' means 'day.'
- It originally indicated not only the previous day but also encompassed a sense of nostalgia or looking back.
The word 'yesterday' originated from the Old English term 'geostran dæg', which literally means 'day before'. Over time, the pronunciation and spelling evolved to become 'yesterday'. The concept of referring to the day before the present day has been present in various languages and cultures throughout history, reflecting the universal experience of marking time and history.
See also: daily, day, daybed, daybreak, daylight, daypack, daystar, daytime, nowadays, today.