Translation guide
Expresses a past time period, often nostalgically or to contrast with the present. Japanese uses various time expressions depending on formality and nuance.
当時、私は学生でした。
In those days, I was a student.
Referring to a period in the past, often with a sense of 'back then'.
Neutral and common; means 'at that time' or 'in those days'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
当時、私は学生でした。
In those days, I was a student.
Literally 'around that time'. Very common in conversation. Slightly more casual than 当時.
その頃は、毎日公園で遊んでいた。
In those days, I played in the park every day.
Often carries a nostalgic tone, like 'back in those days'. Common in reminiscing.
あの頃は、何もかもが新鮮だった。
In those days, everything felt new.
With topic marker は, explicitly contrasts with now. 'As for those days...'
当時は、スマホなんてなかった。
In those days, there were no smartphones.
Used in formal writing, news, or historical accounts.
Also used in formal contexts. No change in form.
当時の日本は、急速に発展していた。
In those days, Japan was developing rapidly.
Slightly more emphatic or specific than 当時 alone. Common in written language.
その当時、人々は戦争の影におびえていた。
In those days, people lived in fear of war.
Expressing fond memories or a sentimental look back.
Literally 'those days', strongly nostalgic. Often used in songs or poetry.
あの日々は、もう戻らない。
Those days will never come back.
Means 'in the old days' or 'long ago'. Can be nostalgic but also simply factual.
昔は、この川でよく泳いだものだ。
In those days, we used to swim in this river.
当時 is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. その頃 is more conversational and refers to a specific time previously mentioned. あの頃 carries a nostalgic, emotional tone and is often used when reminiscing about the past.
Avoid directly translating 'in those days' word-for-word. Phrases like 'それらの日々に' are unnatural. Use the time expressions above instead.