Language is a time capsule, preserving the essence of moments past and future. The word “yesterday” is a universal term that transports us to the day before today, evoking memories, reflections, and a sense of nostalgia. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the meaning of “yesterday” in Bengali, exploring its various interpretations, uses, and cultural significance.
Yesterday Meaning in Bengali
In Bengali, the word “yesterday” is translated as “গতকাল” (pronounced “gotokal”). This word encompasses the entire day before the present, capturing the essence of time that has recently passed. It’s a versatile term used in various contexts, from casual conversations to literary expressions.
Yesterday অর্থ কী?
“Yesterday” শব্দটি বাংলায় “গতকাল” (gotokal) হিসেবে অনুবাদ করা হয়। এটি আজকের আগের দিনকে বোঝায়, অর্থাৎ যে সময় কেটে গেছে তার প্রতি ইঙ্গিত করে। এটি একটি বহুমুখী শব্দ যা বিভিন্ন প্রসঙ্গে ব্যবহৃত হয়, যেমন দৈনন্দিন কথোপকথন থেকে শুরু করে সাহিত্যিক অভিব্যক্তি পর্যন্ত।
“Yesterday” এর বাংলা উচ্চারণ হল “ইয়েস্টারডে”।
Examples
Let’s look at a few examples to understand how “yesterday” is used in different contexts in Bengali:
- Recalling past events:
- “গতকাল আমি একটা সিনেমা দেখেছি।” (Gotokal ami ekta cinema dekhechi.) – I watched a movie yesterday.
- Describing recent actions:
- “গতকাল বৃষ্টি হয়েছিল।” (Gotokal brishti hoyechilo.) – It rained yesterday.
- Comparing with the present:
- “আজকের চেয়ে গতকাল বেশি গরম ছিল।” (Aajker cheye gotokal beshi gorom chilo.) – It was hotter yesterday than today.
- Expressing regret or longing:
- “গতকাল যদি আমি তোমার কথা শুনতাম!” (Gotokal jodi ami tomar kotha shuntam!) – If only I had listened to you yesterday!
Synonyms
In Bengali, there are a few synonyms for “yesterday” that are less commonly used:
- “কাল” (Kal): This word can mean both “yesterday” and “tomorrow,” depending on the context.
- “গত দিন” (Goto din): This phrase literally means “the past day.”
- “অতীত” (Otit): This word refers to the past in a broader sense.
Antonyms
The most common antonym for “yesterday” in Bengali is:
- “আজ” (Aaj): This word means “today.”
Phrases and Idioms
The word “yesterday” is used in various phrases and idioms in Bengali:
- “গতকালের খবর আজ” (Gotokaler khobor aaj) – Yesterday’s news is old news.
- “গতকালের চেয়ে আজ ভালো” (Gotokaler cheye aaj bhalo) – Today is better than yesterday.
Uses
The word “yesterday” is used in a variety of contexts in Bengali:
- Recalling and narrating past events
- Describing recent actions or occurrences
- Comparing the past with the present
- Expressing regret, nostalgia, or longing for the past
- Setting a timeframe for actions or events
Conclusion
“Yesterday,” or “গতকাল” in Bengali, is a word that bridges the gap between the past and the present. It allows us to reflect on our experiences, learn from our mistakes, and cherish our memories. By understanding the nuances of “yesterday” in Bengali, we gain a deeper appreciation for the language’s ability to capture the essence of time and its impact on our lives. So, the next time you reminisce about yesterday, remember the rich tapestry of meanings that “গতকাল” holds in Bengali.