Translation guide
The English phrase "the day" can refer to a specific day, a day in relation to an event, or be part of fixed expressions. In Japanese, it is often expressed with the word 日 (hi) or 当日 (tōjitsu), but the exact translation depends heavily on context. Sometimes it is omitted entirely when clear from context.
Referring to a particular day that has been mentioned or is understood from context.
Literally 'that day'. Used when the day has been previously mentioned or is clear from context.
その日は雨でした。
It rained that day.
その日、彼は来なかった。
He didn't come that day.
Means 'the day in question' or 'the appointed day'. Often used for events, appointments, or deadlines.
当日はお会いできるのを楽しみにしています。
I'm looking forward to seeing you on the day.
当日券はありますか？
Are there tickets available on the day?
Literally 'this day'. Used when referring to a day close in context, like in a narrative.
この日をずっと待っていました。
I've been waiting for this day for a long time.
Referring to the day on which a specific event occurs or occurred.
The standard term for 'the day of the event'. Used for concerts, exams, weddings, etc.
試験当日は早く起きてください。
Please wake up early on the day of the exam.
結婚式当日はとても緊張しました。
I was very nervous on the day of the wedding.
Can also be used for event days if the event has been mentioned.
Expressions like 'the day before', 'the day after', 'the day of', etc.
Means 'the day before' or 'the previous day'.
前日は早く寝ました。
I went to bed early the day before.
Means 'the next day' or 'the following day'.
Means 'the day of' (the event).
Means 'one day' (in the sense of 'on a certain day').
ある日、突然手紙が届いた。
One day, a letter suddenly arrived.
Referring to daytime or the period of daylight.
Referring to a 24-hour period or a calendar day.
The basic word for 'day'. Can be used in many contexts.
その日は特別な日でした。
That day was a special day.
Means 'one day' as a duration.
English often uses 'the' before 'day' to specify a particular day. In Japanese, the context often makes it clear, so you may not need a word like その. Overusing その日 can sound unnatural if the day is already obvious.
その日 is general 'that day', while 当日 specifically means 'the day of an event or appointment'. Use 当日 for scheduled events like exams, weddings, or meetings.
出会った日のことは決して忘れません。
I'll never forget the day we met.
明後日は私の誕生日です。
The day after tomorrow is my birthday.
On the day of the party, she came wearing a dress.
翌日、彼は町を去った。
The next day, he left town.
当日の朝、電話がありました。
There was a phone call the morning of the day.
I work during the day.
It rained all day long.