Mastering “Since”: Sentence Examples and Usage Guide

Understanding how to use the preposition “since” is crucial for constructing clear and accurate sentences in English. “Since” can function as both a preposition and a conjunction, indicating a point in time when something began and continues to the present or when explaining a reason or cause. This article provides a comprehensive guide to using “since” correctly, complete with numerous examples, usage rules, common mistakes, and practice exercises. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will help you master the nuances of “since” and improve your overall English proficiency.

This article is designed for English language learners of all levels, students preparing for English exams, and anyone who wants to enhance their understanding of English grammar. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently use “since” in your writing and speaking, avoiding common errors and expressing yourself with greater precision.

Table of Contents

• Definition of “Since”
• Structural Breakdown
• Types and Categories of “Since”
• Sentence Examples
  • “Since” Indicating Time
  • “Since” Indicating Reason
• Usage Rules
• Common Mistakes
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Definition of “Since”

The word “since” can function as both a preposition and a conjunction. Its primary role is to indicate a temporal relationship, specifying the starting point of an action or state that continues up to the present. Additionally, “since” can also express a reason or cause, similar to “because” or “as.”

As a preposition, “since” is followed by a noun phrase, indicating the time from which something has been happening. For example, “I have lived here since 2010.” Here, “since” links the verb “lived” to the noun phrase “2010,” specifying the starting point of the speaker’s residence.

As a conjunction, “since” introduces a clause, providing either a time reference or a reason for the main clause. For instance, “Since I started exercising, I feel much healthier.” In this case, “since” introduces the clause “I started exercising,” which explains the reason for feeling healthier.

Structural Breakdown

The structure involving “since” depends on whether it’s used as a preposition or a conjunction. Understanding these structures is essential for constructing grammatically correct sentences.

“Since” as a Preposition:

When used as a preposition, the structure is typically:

[Main Clause (often in present perfect)] + since + [Noun Phrase (indicating the starting time)]

Example: “They have been working on the project since last month.”

In this structure, the main clause (“They have been working on the project”) uses the present perfect tense to indicate an action that started in the past and continues to the present. “Since” is followed by the noun phrase “last month,” which specifies when the action began.

“Since” as a Conjunction:

When used as a conjunction, “since” connects two clauses. The structure can be either:

Since + [Clause (indicating time or reason)], [Main Clause]

OR

[Main Clause] + since + [Clause (indicating time or reason)]

Examples:

• “Since it started raining, we decided to stay indoors.” (Reason)
• “We have been studying English since we were children.” (Time)

When “since” introduces the sentence, a comma usually separates the “since” clause from the main clause. If the main clause comes first, the comma is typically omitted.

Types and Categories of “Since”

“Since” can be categorized based on its function within a sentence:

“Since” Indicating Time

This is the most common usage, where “since” specifies the starting point of an action or state that continues to the present. The main clause often uses the present perfect tense or present perfect continuous tense.

Example: “She has been learning to play the piano since she was five years old.”

“Since” Indicating Reason

In this case, “since” introduces a clause that explains the reason or cause for the main clause. It is similar in meaning to “because” or “as.”

Example: “Since he was tired, he went to bed early.”

Sentence Examples

The following sections provide extensive examples of “since” used in different contexts. Understanding these examples will help you grasp the versatility and proper usage of “since.”

“Since” Indicating Time

Here are numerous examples of “since” used to indicate the starting point of an action or state. The examples are categorized to illustrate different time frames and verb tenses. The tables below shows examples of sentences with “since” indicating time.

Sentence	Explanation
I haven’t seen him since last week.	Specifies the last time the speaker saw the person.
She has been working here since January.	Indicates the month when her employment began.
They have lived in this city since 2005.	Shows the year when they moved to the city.
We have been waiting for the bus since 8 AM.	Specifies the time when they started waiting.
He has been studying English since he was a child.	Indicates the age when he began learning English.
The company has been operating since 1990.	Shows the year when the company was founded.
I haven’t felt this happy since my birthday.	Specifies the last time the speaker felt this happy.
She has been practicing the violin since she started school.	Indicates the time when she began practicing the violin.
They haven’t visited us since Christmas.	Specifies the last time they visited.
We have been working on this project since the beginning of the year.	Indicates when the project started.
He has been playing the guitar since he was a teenager.	Indicates the age when he began playing the guitar.
I haven’t eaten meat since I became a vegetarian.	Specifies when the speaker stopped eating meat.
She has been feeling unwell since yesterday.	Indicates when she started feeling unwell.
They have been renovating their house since last summer.	Shows when they started renovating their house.
We haven’t had a vacation since 2018.	Specifies the last time they had a vacation.
He has been growing his beard since he retired.	Indicates when he started growing his beard.
I haven’t slept well since the storm.	Specifies when the speaker’s sleep was disrupted.
She has been volunteering at the hospital since college.	Indicates when she began volunteering.
They have been saving money since they got married.	Shows when they started saving money.
We haven’t seen such a beautiful sunset since our trip to Greece.	Specifies when they last saw a beautiful sunset.
He has been following this diet since his doctor recommended it.	Indicates when he started following the diet.
I haven’t enjoyed a movie this much since I saw “The Shawshank Redemption”.	Specifies when the speaker last enjoyed a movie this much.
She has been using this software since it was released.	Indicates when she started using the software.
They have been attending this church since they moved to the neighborhood.	Shows when they started attending the church.
We haven’t experienced such cold weather since the winter of 2010.	Specifies when they last experienced such cold weather.
He has been collecting stamps since his grandfather gave him his collection.	Indicates when he started collecting stamps.
I haven’t laughed so hard since that comedy show we saw last year.	Specifies when the speaker last laughed so hard.

This table shows various examples of sentences using “since” to denote a specific time frame when an action or state commenced and continues to the present. Each example provides a clear context and helps illustrate the proper usage of “since” in temporal contexts. The variety of examples allows learners to understand how “since” can be used with different time references, such as specific dates, events, or periods in one’s life.

“Since” Indicating Reason

In the following examples, “since” is used to provide a reason or explanation for a particular situation or action. It functions similarly to “because” or “as,” offering a cause-and-effect relationship within the sentence. The table below provides examples of sentences with “since” indicating reason.

Sentence	Explanation
Since it’s raining, we should take an umbrella.	Provides the reason for taking an umbrella.
Since he was tired, he went to bed early.	Explains why he went to bed early.
Since she studied hard, she passed the exam.	Indicates the reason for passing the exam.
Since the store was closed, we couldn’t buy groceries.	Explains why they couldn’t buy groceries.
Since they had a lot of work, they stayed late.	Indicates the reason for staying late.
Since I didn’t have any money, I couldn’t go to the movies.	Explains why the speaker couldn’t go to the movies.
Since she knows French, she can translate the document.	Indicates the reason for her ability to translate.
Since they live nearby, they often visit us.	Explains why they often visit.
Since we have some time, let’s go for a walk.	Provides the reason for going for a walk.
Since he is the team leader, he made the decision.	Indicates the reason for him making the decision.
Since she is a doctor, she can give you medical advice.	Explains why she can give medical advice.
Since they are experienced, they were hired for the job.	Indicates the reason for being hired.
Since I had already eaten, I wasn’t hungry.	Explains why the speaker wasn’t hungry.
Since she likes to cook, she prepared the meal.	Indicates the reason for her preparing the meal.
Since they needed help, we offered our assistance.	Explains why they offered assistance.
Since I understand the topic, I can explain it to you.	Indicates the reason for being able to explain the topic.
Since she practices every day, she’s become a great musician.	Explains why she has become a great musician.
Since they were informed about the changes, they adapted quickly.	Indicates the reason for their quick adaptation.
Since we have all the necessary equipment, we can start the experiment.	Provides the reason for being able to start the experiment.
Since he’s fluent in Spanish, he was sent to the conference in Madrid.	Explains why he was sent to the conference.
Since she is passionate about environmental issues, she volunteers for the local conservation group.	Indicates the reason for her volunteering.
Since they had planned the trip for months, they were very excited when the day finally arrived.	Explains why they were very excited.
Since I had read the book before, I already knew the ending of the movie.	Indicates the reason for already knowing the ending.
Since she had received excellent training, she was able to handle the challenging project.	Explains why she was able to handle the project.
Since they were aware of the risks, they took extra precautions.	Indicates the reason for taking extra precautions.
Since we had checked the weather forecast, we knew it was going to rain.	Explains why they knew it was going to rain.
Since he is an expert in the field, his opinion is highly valued.	Indicates the reason why his opinion is highly valued.

This table offers a variety of sentences using “since” to explain the reasons behind certain actions or situations. By examining these examples, learners can get a better understanding of how to use “since” to establish cause-and-effect relationships in their writing and speaking.

Usage Rules

To use “since” correctly, it’s important to follow specific grammatical rules. These rules ensure clarity and accuracy in your sentences.

1. Tense Agreement: When “since” indicates time, the main clause typically uses the present perfect or present perfect continuous tense. The clause following “since” usually uses the simple past tense.
2. Comma Usage: When “since” begins a sentence (as a conjunction), use a comma to separate the “since” clause from the main clause. If the main clause comes first, the comma is often omitted.
3. Clarity: Ensure that the time or reason indicated by “since” is clear and logical in relation to the main clause.
4. Avoid Redundancy: Do not use “since” in a way that repeats information already conveyed in the sentence.

Rule 1: Tense Agreement

The tense agreement rule is particularly important when “since” is used to indicate time. The present perfect or present perfect continuous tense in the main clause highlights that an action started in the past and continues to the present. The simple past tense in the “since” clause specifies the starting point of that action.

Correct: “I have been studying English since 2015.” (Present perfect continuous in the main clause, simple past implied in the “since” clause.)

Incorrect: “I am studying English since 2015.” (Incorrect tense usage in the main clause.)

Rule 2: Comma Usage

Using commas correctly improves readability and clarifies the relationship between the clauses. When “since” introduces the sentence, the comma signals the end of the introductory clause and the start of the main clause.

Correct: “Since it started raining, we decided to stay indoors.”

Correct: “We decided to stay indoors since it started raining.” (No comma needed when the main clause comes first.)

Incorrect: “Since it started raining we decided to stay indoors.” (Missing comma.)

Rule 3: Clarity

The relationship between the “since” clause and the main clause should be logical. The time or reason provided by “since” should make sense in the context of the entire sentence.

Clear: “Since he was feeling unwell, he decided to see a doctor.” (The reason for seeing a doctor is clear.)

Unclear: “Since he likes apples, he decided to see a doctor.” (The reason for seeing a doctor is unrelated to liking apples.)

Rule 4: Avoid Redundancy

Using “since” to repeat information already present in the sentence can make the sentence sound awkward or unnatural. Avoid unnecessary repetition.

Redundant: “Since it was raining, because it was raining, we stayed inside.” (The reason is repeated unnecessarily.)

Correct: “Since it was raining, we stayed inside.” or “Because it was raining, we stayed inside.”

Common Mistakes

Even experienced English learners sometimes make mistakes when using “since.” Being aware of these common errors can help you avoid them.

1. Incorrect Tense Usage: Using the wrong tense in the main clause or the “since” clause.
2. Misusing “Since” and “For”: Confusing “since” with “for,” which indicates a duration of time, not a starting point.
3. Incorrect Comma Placement: Omitting or misplacing the comma when “since” introduces the sentence.
4. Using “Since” Unnecessarily: Adding “since” to sentences where it doesn’t logically fit.

The table below shows common mistakes when using “since” and their corrections.

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
I am living here since 2010.	I have been living here since 2010.	Corrects the tense from present continuous to present perfect continuous.
I have known her for last year.	I have known her since last year.	Replaces “for” with “since” to indicate a starting point, not duration.
Since it was cold I wore a jacket.	Since it was cold, I wore a jacket.	Adds a comma after the “since” clause.
Because since it rained, the game was canceled.	Since it rained, the game was canceled. OR Because it rained, the game was canceled.	Removes the redundant “because.”
I haven’t seen him for last week.	I haven’t seen him since last week.	Uses “since” to indicate the starting point of not seeing him.
She is working here since two years.	She has been working here for two years. OR She has been working here since two years ago.	Uses “for” to indicate duration, or rephrases to use “since” correctly.
Since, he arrived late, he missed the meeting.	Since he arrived late, he missed the meeting.	Removes the unnecessary comma after “since.”
I am happy since I got the job.	I am happy because I got the job. OR I have been happy since I got the job.	Replaces “since” with “because” or adjusts tense for correct usage.
We are waiting the bus since morning.	We have been waiting for the bus since morning.	Adds the preposition “for” and corrects tense.
Since the start of the movie, I am enjoying it.	Since the start of the movie, I have been enjoying it.	Corrects the tense from present continuous to present perfect continuous.

This table provides a clear comparison between incorrect and correct sentences, highlighting the specific errors and offering the appropriate corrections. By studying these examples, learners can become more aware of common pitfalls and improve their accuracy when using “since.”

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of “since” with these practice exercises. Each exercise focuses on different aspects of using “since” correctly.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following sentences with the correct form of the verb and “since.”

Question	Answer
1. I ______ (not/see) him ______ last summer.	1. I haven’t seen him since last summer.
2. She ______ (work) here ______ 2018.	2. She has been working here since 2018.
3. They ______ (live) in this town ______ they were children.	3. They have lived in this town since they were children.
4. We ______ (not/go) to the beach ______ our vacation last year.	4. We haven’t gone to the beach since our vacation last year.
5. He ______ (study) English ______ he started school.	5. He has been studying English since he started school.
6. I ______ (not/eat) meat ______ I became a vegetarian.	6. I haven’t eaten meat since I became a vegetarian.
7. She ______ (feel) tired ______ yesterday.	7. She has been feeling tired since yesterday.
8. They ______ (renovate) their house ______ last month.	8. They have been renovating their house since last month.
9. We ______ (not/have) a vacation ______ 2020.	9. We haven’t had a vacation since 2020.
10. He ______ (grow) a beard ______ he retired.	10. He has been growing a beard since he retired.

Exercise 2: Rewrite the Sentences

Rewrite the following sentences using “since.”

Question	Answer
1. Because it was raining, we stayed inside.	1. Since it was raining, we stayed inside.
2. As he was tired, he went to bed early.	2. Since he was tired, he went to bed early.
3. Because she studied hard, she passed the exam.	3. Since she studied hard, she passed the exam.
4. As the store was closed, we couldn’t buy groceries.	4. Since the store was closed, we couldn’t buy groceries.
5. Because they had a lot of work, they stayed late.	5. Since they had a lot of work, they stayed late.
6. As I didn’t have any money, I couldn’t go to the movies.	6. Since I didn’t have any money, I couldn’t go to the movies.
7. Because she knows French, she can translate the document.	7. Since she knows French, she can translate the document.
8. As they live nearby, they often visit us.	8. Since they live nearby, they often visit us.
9. Because we have some time, let’s go for a walk.	9. Since we have some time, let’s go for a walk.
10. As he is the team leader, he made the decision.	10. Since he is the team leader, he made the decision.

Exercise 3: Error Correction

Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences.

Question	Answer
1. I am living here since 2015.	1. I have been living here since 2015.
2. She works here since last year.	2. She has been working here since last year.
3. Since, it rained, we stayed inside.	3. Since it rained, we stayed inside.
4. I haven’t seen him for last month.	4. I haven’t seen him since last month.
5. They are knowing each other since years.	5. They have known each other for years. OR They have known each other since [specific year].
6. We are waiting for you since one hour.	6. We have been waiting for you for one hour.
7. He is playing guitar since he was ten.	7. He has been playing guitar since he was ten.
8. Since she is tired, because she worked hard.	8. Since she is tired, it’s because she worked hard. OR Since she worked hard, she is tired.
9. Since it is raining, I will take an umbrella.	9. Since it is raining, I am taking an umbrella.
10. She is a doctor since five years.	10. She has been a doctor for five years.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, understanding the nuances of “since” can further refine their English skills.

“Ever Since”

“Ever since” is an emphatic form of “since,” further emphasizing the continuous nature of an action or state from a specific point in time. It is used in the same way as “since” but adds extra emphasis.

Example: “Ever since I moved to this city, I’ve felt more at home.”

“Not Since”

“Not since” is used to emphasize the length of time that has passed since something last happened. It adds a sense of duration and often implies a significant period.

Example: “Not since my childhood have I felt this carefree.”

Subtleties in Meaning

The choice between “since,” “because,” and “as” can sometimes depend on the emphasis you want to convey. “Since” often implies a connection that is already known or understood, while “because” can introduce a new or surprising reason. “As” is generally more formal than “since.”

Examples:

• “Since you’re here, can you help me with this?” (Implies the person’s presence is known.)
• “Because you’re here, I can finally finish this project.” (Highlights the person’s presence as the key reason.)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about using “since.”

1. Q: What is the difference between “since” and “for”?

   A: “Since” indicates the starting point of an action or state, while “for” indicates the duration. For example, “I have lived here since 2010” (starting point) vs. “I have lived here for 10 years” (duration).

2. Q: Can I use “since” at the beginning of a sentence?

   A: Yes, you can use “since” at the beginning of a sentence when it functions as a conjunction. Remember to use a comma to separate the “since” clause from the main clause.

3. Q: What tense should I use with “since”?

   A: When “since” indicates time, the main clause usually uses the present perfect or present perfect continuous tense, and the clause following “since” uses the simple past tense.

4. Q: Is it always necessary to use a comma after the “since” clause?

   A: No, a comma is generally used when the “since” clause comes at the beginning of the sentence. If the main clause comes first, the comma is often omitted.

5. Q: Can “since” be used interchangeably with “because”?

   A: Yes, in many cases, “since” and “because” can be used interchangeably to indicate a reason or cause. However, “since” often implies a connection that is already understood or known.

6. Q: What does “ever since” mean?

   A: “Ever since” is an emphatic form of “since,” emphasizing the continuous nature of an action or state from a specific point in time.

7. Q: Can I use “since” with future tenses?

   A: No, “since” is typically used with past and present tenses to indicate a time or reason related to the present. It is not usually used with future tenses.

8. Q: How can I avoid common mistakes when using “since”?

   A: Pay attention to tense agreement, comma placement, and the logical relationship between the clauses. Practice using “since” in different contexts and review the common mistakes outlined in this guide.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “since” is essential for effective communication in English. Whether you’re indicating a point in time or providing a reason, understanding the grammatical rules and nuances of “since” will help you construct clear and accurate sentences. By reviewing the definitions, examples, usage rules, and practice exercises in this guide, you can confidently incorporate “since” into your writing and speaking.

Remember to pay attention to tense agreement, comma placement, and the logical flow of your sentences. By avoiding common mistakes and practicing regularly, you’ll enhance your overall English proficiency and express yourself with greater precision. Continue to explore different contexts and applications of “since” to further refine your skills and achieve fluency in English.