What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
yesteryear
Example
In yesteryear, people used to write letters instead of sending emails. [yesteryear: noun]
Example
She longed for the simplicity of yesteryear when life was less complicated. [yesteryear: adjective]
past
Example
The past cannot be changed, so it's important to focus on the present. [past: noun]
Example
He was able to move past his mistakes and learn from them. [past: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Past is more commonly used than yesteryear in everyday language. Past is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while yesteryear is less common and is often used in more formal or literary writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between yesteryear and past?
Yesteryear is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while past is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
