Relative time markers (ที่แล้ว, หน้า)

Past Time with ที่แล้ว

To specify that an event happened in a previous time period, use the word ที่แล้ว (last/past). Simply place it immediately after a time noun, such as ปี (year) or เดือน (month).

Let's look at this structure in the context of renting property. You will often use it alongside terms like สัญญาเช่า (lease agreement) and ผู้เช่า (tenant).

Future Time with หน้า

To talk about an upcoming time period, place the word หน้า (next) directly after the time noun. For example, ปีหน้า means "next year" and อาทิตย์หน้า means "next week".

When discussing property, you can use these future markers to talk about plans involving the เจ้าของบ้าน (landlord / house owner).

Renewing and Expiring Contracts

Relative time markers are especially useful when discussing the lifecycle of a lease. You will frequently pair them with verbs like ต่อสัญญา (to renew a contract) and หมดอายุ (to expire).

Deposits, Fines, and Advance Payments

Rental agreements come with specific financial terms, such as มัดจำ (deposit) and ค่าปรับ (fine or penalty fee).

When a payment or notification is required ahead of time, use the word ล่วงหน้า (in advance). This word typically follows the action or the specific time duration being required upfront.