Confusion regarding placement of pasada and proxima

Question

I am always confused when comparing the following phrases:

Last week = la semana pasada

Next week = la proxima semana

Why is pasada used after the noun, but proxima used before the noun. Both are descriptors for the noun "week" so I am always confused why their placement isn't identical (either both should appear before the noun, or else both should appear after the noun). Unless the locations are indeed interchangeable. Just wondering. Thanks.

Answer 1

I think it's just peculiar to próximo/a - you can place it either before or after the noun without any change of meaning.

semana próxima = próxima semana

mes próximo = próximo mes

But this isn't always so with adjectives:

hombre pobre: poor man (no money)

pobre hombre: poor man (in a miserable situation)

Perfect explanation, Kiwi! - francobollo, Aug 6, 2012

Thanx Franco :) - Kiwi-Girl, Aug 7, 2012