From vs Since

Many English learners find themselves puzzled by the distinction between “from” and “since,” often using them interchangeably without realizing the nuances that set them apart. Grasping this difference is essential, as it not only enhances your communication skills but also helps you convey time-related information more accurately. In this article, we will delve into the meanings and uses of “from” and “since,” providing you with clear examples and practical tips to master these two important prepositions.

Quick Summary

From and Since are both prepositions used to indicate time, but they serve different purposes. From is used to denote the starting point of an action or event, often followed by a specific time or date. For example, “I will work from 9 AM.” In contrast, Since is used to indicate the starting point of an action that continues up to the present moment, often followed by a specific point in time. For instance, “I have lived here since 2010.”

Key differences include:

• From refers to a starting point without necessarily indicating that the action is ongoing.
• Since implies continuity from a specific point in the past to the present.

In terms of regional preferences, both From and Since are used consistently in both American and British English, with no significant differences in their application.

What Do ‘From vs Since’ Mean?

The terms “from” and “since” are prepositions that indicate time but serve different grammatical roles in a sentence. “From” is used to specify a starting point in time, whereas “since” refers to a specific point in time that continues to the present. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for clear communication in English.

For example, consider the sentence: “I have lived in London from 2010.” Here, “from” indicates the beginning of the time period when the speaker started living in London. In contrast, in the sentence “I have lived in London since 2010,” “since” indicates that the speaker started living in London in 2010 and continues to do so up to the present moment.

‘From vs Since’: The Differences

While “from” and “since” both relate to time, their usage can vary based on context, regional preferences, and stylistic choices. In American English, “from” is often used in a more straightforward manner, while “since” emphasizes continuity. For instance, an American might say, “I will be in the office from 9 AM to 5 PM,” clearly outlining a specific time frame.

On the other hand, in British English, you might hear, “I have worked here since last year,” which not only indicates when the speaker started working but also implies that they are still employed there. Additionally, in informal conversations, you might encounter variations where speakers interchangeably use “from” and “since,” although this can lead to confusion.

To illustrate these distinctions further, consider the following examples:
– “I have known her from high school.” (This suggests a starting point but doesn’t clarify if the relationship continues.)
– “I have known her since high school.” (This clearly indicates that the relationship began in high school and is ongoing.)

By grasping the nuances of “from” and “since,” learners can enhance their English proficiency and communicate more effectively.

Regional Preferences From vs Since

English is a diverse language, with variations in usage and grammar across different regions. One area where these differences become evident is in the use of “From” vs “Since.” While both terms may seem universally understood, their application can vary significantly depending on the audience and context. Understanding these regional preferences is essential for effective communication in English.

American English

In American English, the phrase “I have lived here **from** 2010.” is commonly used. In the United States, this version is more frequently employed because it emphasizes a specific starting point in time, aligning with the American preference for concise expressions of time.

British English

In British English, you might hear “I have lived here **since** 2010.” In British English, this form is preferred, as it follows the convention of indicating a continuous action from a past point in time up to the present, which reflects a more narrative style favored in this region.

Examples in Context: From vs Since

Understanding the correct usage of “from” and “since” is crucial for effective communication in English. Real-life examples help illustrate the differences between these two terms, providing practical insights into their application in various contexts. By reviewing these examples, learners can confidently distinguish between “from” and “since” in their writing and conversations.

Examples of “From”

• She moved to London from Paris last year.
• The train departs from the central station at 8 AM.
• I received a letter from my friend yesterday.
• They are generating revenue from their online store.
• He learned Spanish from his grandmother.
• The gift was from my parents for my birthday.
• We walked from the park to the museum.
• The project started from a simple idea.

Examples of “Since”

• I have lived in this city since 2010.
• She has been working here since she graduated.
• They have been friends since childhood.
• The company has grown significantly since its founding.
• He hasn’t seen her since last summer.
• I’ve been studying English since I was a kid.
• Since the launch of the product, sales have increased.
• She has not traveled since the pandemic began.

Synonyms & Antonyms of From vs Since

Improving vocabulary is essential for anyone looking to enhance their English skills. Learning synonyms allows for greater variety in speech and writing, making communication more engaging. On the other hand, understanding antonyms helps clarify the exact meaning of a word, ensuring that your message is conveyed accurately. By familiarizing yourself with different word choices, you can sound more fluent and natural in English.

Word	Synonyms	Antonyms
From	Out of, Away from, Starting at	To, Towards, Into
Since	Because, As, Inasmuch as	Until, Before

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Understanding the differences between “from” and “since” is crucial for mastering English, as even advanced learners often make mistakes. Correct usage enhances both fluency and accuracy, allowing for clearer communication. In this guide, we will outline common errors related to “from” vs. “since” and provide actionable tips to help you avoid them.

• Using “from” instead of “since” for specific points in time:
  • Incorrect: “I have lived here from 2015.”
  • Correction: Use “since” for a specific starting point: “I have lived here since 2015.”
• Confusing “from” with periods:
  • Incorrect: “I work from 9 AM to 5 PM.”
  • Correction: “From” is used for a starting point; use “between” for periods: “I work between 9 AM and 5 PM.”
• Using “since” for a duration:
  • Incorrect: “I have known her since five years.”
  • Correction: Use “for” to indicate duration: “I have known her for five years.”
• Using “since” with future events:
  • Incorrect: “I will work here since next year.”
  • Correction: Use “from” or “starting”: “I will work here from next year.”
• Regional differences in usage:
  • In British English, “since” may be used more flexibly. Be aware of your audience and adjust accordingly. For clarity, adhere to standard rules.

Tips for Correct Usage

Mastering the correct usage of “From” vs “Since” is essential for clear and professional writing. These words help convey timeframes accurately, enhancing both clarity and grammatical precision. Understanding their differences can significantly improve your communication skills. Below are practical writing tips to help you use “From” and “Since” correctly.

1. Use “From” for specific points in time: Apply “From” when referring to a specific starting point, often followed by a date or time.
2. Use “Since” for a starting point in the past: Use “Since” to indicate a period that began in the past and continues to the present.
3. Pay attention to verb tenses: When using “Since,” pair it with the present perfect tense to emphasize an ongoing action.
4. Avoid confusion with ongoing actions: Remember that “From” indicates a definitive start, while “Since” implies continuity.
5. Be mindful of regional usage: While “From” and “Since” are widely understood, regional variations may exist in conversational contexts.
6. Check for clarity: Ensure your sentences clearly distinguish between the two terms to avoid ambiguity.
7. Practice with examples: Regularly write sentences using both terms to solidify your understanding of their usage.

Frequently Asked Questions