Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Previously" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "previously", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
かねてより
かねてより (kaneteyori)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
予て
かねて (kanete)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "previously" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between かねてより and 予て.
In Japanese, かねてより (かねてより (kaneteyori)) is typically associated with "previously, for some time past, long ago, for a long time now" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Formal expression indicating something has been the case or planned for a long time. It emphasizes continuity from the past up to the present..
On the other hand, 予て (かねて (kanete)) maps to "previously, for some time, already" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that something has been the case, known, or planned for a long time prior to the present moment. Often used with verbs like 「知っている」「思っている」「計画している」. 「以前から、前もって」という意味。. A literal translation of "previously" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "かねてより"
彼はかねてより海外留学を希望していた。
He had hoped to study abroad for some time.
Bilingual Context for "予て"
予てから彼の才能には注目していた。
I had been paying attention to his talent for some time.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ 海外留学を希望していた。" (Meaning: "He had hoped to study abroad for some time.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "かねてより" fits here because it means "previously, for some time past, long ago, for a long time now" in the context of: "He had hoped to study abroad for some time.". "予て" represents "previously, for some time, already".