question about this phrase: The other day

[english-learner]

Hello,

Does this phrase " the other day" mean the next day or the preceding day?

Could you help me how to use it right?

Thanks,
english-learner

[Tdol]

It means an unspecified day in the recent past. I first saw you on the forum the other day- I can't remember if it was two, three or four days, but it was not long ago.

[english-learner]

Thank you for taking the time replying for me.

I have one more question about this phrase, which is that on one of the dictionary I have, it said "This term originally meant either “the next day” or “the preceding day” (tomorrow or yesterday). In its current meaning it was first recorded in 1421". My question here is that does people still use this phrase as the next day or just simply mean in the past recently day

Thank you,
english-learner

[Tdol]

We don't use it that way nowadays- I don't think I've ever heard it used like that, though it might be used in some regional varieties in that way.

[english-learner]

Hello Tdol,

Thank you for explaining to me about this phrase. I have no problem with this one now.

Thanks,
english-learner