それからAfter that; also
それから introduces the next step in a sequence or adds one more item, question, request, or topic. Depending on context, it means “after that,” “and then,” or “also.”
Two main uses
For a sequence, the first action is complete and それから clearly moves to the following step. In conversation, the same expression can simply signal that the speaker has one more thing to add.
A clear next step
駅に着きました。それから、友達に電話しました。
I arrived at the station. After that, I called my friend.
AnalyzeThe arrival is complete before the phone call begins, so the boundary between the two steps is meaningful.
Adding one more item
ご注文は？
What would you like to order?
Analyzeケーキを一つください。それから、コーヒーもお願いします。
One slice of cake, please. Also, a coffee.
AnalyzeThe customer is adding another item to the order, not describing which item must come first.
Choosing the right connection
そして often presents events as a smoother, more unified continuation. それから more clearly points to a distinct next step. Neither choice is automatically impossible in the other context; the difference is what kind of connection the speaker highlights. By contrast, てから attaches directly to the first verb to mean “after doing.” Do not replace that verb-attached pattern mechanically with a sentence-starting connective.
More examples
朝ご飯を食べました。それから、学校へ行きました。
I ate breakfast. Then I went to school.
Analyzeこの紙に名前を書いてください。それから、ここに日付を書いてください。
Please write your name on this paper. Then write the date here.
Analyze今日は銀行に行きます。それから、スーパーにも行きます。
I’m going to the bank today. After that, I’ll go to the supermarket too.
Analyze予約をお願いします。それから、窓側の席はありますか。
I’d like to make a reservation. Also, do you have a window seat?
Analyze買うものは、牛乳とパンです。それから、卵も必要です。
We need to buy milk and bread. We also need eggs.
Analyzeまず電源を切ります。それから、ふたを開けます。
First, turn off the power. Then open the lid.
Analyze