What does since mean?
“Since” is a versatile function word used primarily to express cause and the beginning of a time period. As a conjunction or preposition, it introduces the reason for a statement: “Since the train was delayed, they missed the meeting.” As an adverb, it means “from that point in time onward” or can accompany the present perfect to say that an action began at a stated time and has continued: “They have known each other since childhood.” Its use with the present perfect is especially idiomatic in British and American English. Although “since” can also be used as a rare noun referring to a starting point in time, most speakers encounter it almost entirely in its causal and temporal functions. The word is useful because it clearly distinguishes between explaining why something happened and identifying when something began.
Used to introduce a fact or circumstance that explains why something happens or is true.
"Since the road was closed, the drivers had to take a detour."
Common in both formal and informal contexts, particularly when a statement gives the basis for another statement.
Means “from that time onward” or “during the period from that time until now.”
"They have been friends since university, and they remain close."
The present perfect is especially common with this temporal meaning.
Indicates a point in time from which an action or situation has continued.
"He has worked in the city since 2015."
Usually paired with the present perfect in contemporary English.
A point in time from which something is measured or considered.
"The library has expanded greatly since its opening."
The noun use is uncommon and chiefly formal or literary.
The plural is rare and appears mainly in formal or literary usage.
"The changes since the two sines have been substantial."
The word “since” can do two jobs at once: it can explain a cause and mark the beginning of a time period.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does since come from?
The word comes from Old English sīþana, meaning “from that time” or “afterwards.” Its older forms, including sīþ and the Middle English variant sithen, developed from a Germanic root associated with the idea of “after” or “later.” Modern “since” preserves both the temporal sense and, by extension, the causal sense in which a circumstance is followed by a result.
How since is actually used
In its causal use, “since” is especially common in formal writing and in contexts where a stated condition is being treated as the basis for a conclusion. In its temporal use, it usually takes the present perfect, but the past simple is also possible when the reference period is clearly understood: “She left since noon” is possible but less common than “She has been away since noon.” The noun use is uncommon and formal.
Easily confused with since
“Since” means “because” or refers to a starting point in time, whereas “scene” means a place where an event occurs or a passage from a play or story.