The English language is a fascinating tapestry of words and expressions, each carrying its own unique nuances and applications. Among these linguistic gems is the word “since,” a small yet mighty term that serves a multitude of purposes beyond its commonly known role in perfect continuous tenses. While many may associate “since” solely with indicating the duration of an ongoing action or state, its versatility extends far beyond this narrow scope.
In this blog, we embark on a journey to uncover the various uses of “since” beyond perfect continuous tenses. From temporal markers to causal connectors, “since” proves itself to be a powerhouse in the English language, capable of weaving together disparate ideas and concepts with finesse and clarity.
Join us as we delve into the depths of this deceptively simple word, exploring its myriad functions and shedding light on its lesser-known applications. Whether you’re a language enthusiast eager to expand your linguistic repertoire or a curious learner seeking to unravel the mysteries of English grammar, this exploration of the uses of “since” promises to be both enlightening and enriching.
So, without further ado, let’s embark on this linguistic odyssey and unlock the hidden potentials of “since” that lie beyond the confines of perfect continuous tenses.
3 Important Uses of "Since" in Spoken English
1. Conjunction:
In the context of “since” as a conjunction introducing a clause indicating a specific time or event from which a situation has persisted, it implies a causal relationship between the two events. Here are ten sentences illustrating this usage:
1. Since the pandemic began, our lives have been significantly altered.
2. Since she took up painting, her creativity has flourished.
3. Since the new manager joined the team, productivity has noticeably improved.
4. Since the company implemented remote work policies, employee satisfaction has increased.
5. Since they moved to the countryside, their stress levels have decreased.
6. Since I started meditating daily, my mental clarity has improved.
7. Since the start of the project, our team’s collaboration has strengthened.
8. Since he started exercising regularly, his overall health has improved dramatically.
9. Since the policy change was enacted, customer complaints have decreased.
10. Since they adopted a healthier diet, their energy levels have soared.
In each of these sentences, the word “since” introduces a specific time or event (the pandemic, taking up painting, joining a new manager, etc.) from which a consequent situation or change has persisted. This usage of “since” helps to establish a causal link between the two events or periods of time.
2. Conjunction:
Since” can introduce a clause indicating the reason or cause for something. Here are ten sentences demonstrating the causal usage of “since” as a conjunction indicating the reason or cause for something:
1. Since she missed the train, she arrived late to the meeting.
2. Since the roads are icy, we should drive carefully.
3. Since he forgot his wallet, he couldn’t buy anything at the store.
4. Since the oven is broken, we’ll have to order takeout for dinner.
5. Since they ran out of gas, they had to pull over to the side of the road.
6. Since the alarm didn’t go off, they overslept and missed the flight.
7. Since the internet connection is unstable, the video call keeps freezing.
8. Since the price of gas has increased, many people are opting for public transportation.
9. Since the bridge is under construction, we’ll need to take a detour.
10. Since the power went out, we’ve been using candles for light.
In each of these sentences, “since” introduces a clause that provides the reason or cause for a subsequent action, event, or situation.
3. Adjective:
In British English, “since” can sometimes be used as an adjective to indicate a period of time that has passed since a particular event occurred. This usage is relatively less common and is typically found in informal or colloquial speech. Here are further explanations and ten more examples:
Explanation: When “since” is used as an adjective in this context, it essentially functions as a shorthand way of expressing the time that has elapsed since a specified event happened. It’s akin to saying “ago,” but with a slightly different nuance.
Examples:
1. It’s been two hours since the movie started.
2. She has been waiting at the bus stop for twenty minutes since the rain began.
3. He arrived at the party fifteen minutes since the cake was cut.
4. The shop has been closed for an hour since the power outage.
5. They have been friends for ten years since they met in college.
6. It’s been a month since the new regulations were implemented.
7. She has been feeling unwell for a week since she ate the expired food.
8. The car has been parked in the garage for six months since it broke down.
9. He has been attending yoga classes regularly for three weeks since his doctor recommended it.
10. It’s been a year since they moved into their new house.
In each of these examples, “since” is used as an adjective to denote the time that has passed since a particular event or starting point. It helps to convey a sense of elapsed time or duration in a concise manner.
