Which is correct:
"the previous days" or "previous days"?

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the previous days

This phrase is correct when referring to specific days that were mentioned or are known in the conversation.

Use 'the previous days' when you want to refer to particular days that have already been discussed or are clear from the context.

Examples:

  • The previous days were filled with excitement and anticipation.
  • I will never forget the events of the previous days.

Alternatives:

  • the days before
  • those days
  • the days that came before
  • the days that preceded
  • the days that passed

previous days

This phrase is correct when referring to days that came before the current one in a general sense.

Use 'previous days' when you want to talk about any days that occurred before the present day without specifying particular days.

Examples:

  • In the previous days, we used to go for long walks.
  • She had been feeling unwell for several previous days.

Alternatives:

  • days before
  • days that came before
  • days that preceded
  • days that passed
  • earlier days
Both 'the previous days' and 'previous days' can be correct depending on the context. 'The previous days' is used when referring to specific days that were mentioned or are known in the conversation. 'Previous days' is more general and refers to any days that came before the current one.

Last updated: April 01, 2024

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