Translation and Meaning of: 明後日 - asate

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 明後日 (asate) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: asate

Kana: あさって

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1, jlpt-n5

明後日

Translation / Meaning: after tomorrow

Meaning in English: day after tomorrow

Definition: Two days later.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (明後日) asate

The Japanese word 「明後日」 (asatte) is used to refer to the day after tomorrow, that is, two days ahead of the present. In the context of planning or everyday conversation, this term is often used to specify events in the near future, making it easier to organize appointments and activities. The Japanese language is rich in temporal details, and 「明後日」 is one of the expressions that exemplifies this precision in describing time.

Etymologically, 「明後日」 (asatte) is formed by three kanji: 「明」 (mei/akarui), which means "clear" or "tomorrow"; 「後」 (go/ato), which denotes "after" or "behind", and 「日」 (nichi/hi), which means "day". Thus, the composition of 「明」 and 「後」 emphasizes the notion of a day that comes after tomorrow. When we use these words together, we have a clear definition of the day following the next, a structure that exemplifies well the semantic precision of the Japanese language.

The origin of this term dates back to the need for effective communication about future times in everyday Japanese life. Expressions related to time in Japanese not only indicate the passing of days but also reflect the cultural significance of organization and detailed planning. In a broader context, the Japanese often use similar words such as 「昨日」 (kinou, "yesterday"), 「今日」 (kyou, "today"), and 「明日」 (ashita, "tomorrow") to position activities and events in relation to the present time, making time management a practice deeply rooted in the culture.