Translation guide
The English word 'since' has two main uses: indicating a time starting point ('from a past time until now') and giving a reason ('because'). This guide covers both, with natural Japanese equivalents for each.
Expressing that something has been true or has continued from a specific time in the past up to the present.
Attach から to a noun or time expression to mark the starting point. Often used with 〜ている to indicate an ongoing state or action.
I have been living in Japan since 2010.
He has been working since morning.
More formal than から. Attaches to nouns or the て-form of verbs. Emphasizes that something has continued since that point.
I haven't seen him since graduation.
Since coming to Japan, I have been studying Japanese every day.
Adds emphasis on continuity ('ever since'). Use after a time expression.
I have been learning piano ever since I was a child.
Giving a reason or cause for something.
Attaches to the plain form of verbs/adjectives. Softer and more explanatory than から. Common in polite speech.
Since it's raining, the game is canceled.
Since tomorrow is a day off, would you like to go see a movie?
Also means 'because'. More direct and subjective than ので. Can sound blunt or childish if overused in formal situations.
Since it's late, let's go home.
Formal/literary. Used in official announcements or writing. Can also mean 'for the purpose of', so context is important.
Both mean 'because', but ので is softer and more polite. から can sound like you're strongly asserting a reason. In formal writing or business, ので is safer.
Since the train was late, I was late. (polite explanation)
Since the train was late, I was late. (casual/blunt)
In English, 'since' can be ambiguous. In Japanese, the structures are different. Use から/以来 for time, and ので/から for reason. Mixing them up can cause confusion.
彼は忙しいから、手伝えない。
Since he's busy, he can't help.
Since there is a typhoon, the trains are stopped.