From vs. Since

Attribute	From	Since
Definition	Indicates the starting point or origin	Indicates the point in time when something began
Usage	Used to specify the source or origin of something	Used to specify the starting time or duration of something
Direction	Indicates movement or origin in space	Indicates a point in time or duration
Examples	Coming from the store	Since 1999
Associated with	Departure, origin, source	Beginning, starting point, duration

Introduction

When it comes to expressing time and duration, two commonly used prepositions in English are "from" and "since." While both prepositions are used to indicate a starting point in time, they have distinct attributes and are used in different contexts. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between "from" and "since" to gain a better understanding of their usage.

Definition and Usage of "From"

The preposition "from" is primarily used to indicate the starting point of an action, event, or period in time. It is often used to express the origin, source, or cause of something. "From" is commonly used with specific points in time, such as dates, days, or moments.

For example:

• I will be on vacationfrom July 1st to July 10th.
• The concert will take placefrom 7 PM to 10 PM.
• She has been working on this projectfrom the beginning of the year.

As seen in the examples, "from" is used to indicate the starting point of a specific time period or event. It emphasizes the duration or range between the starting and ending points.

Definition and Usage of "Since"

The preposition "since" is primarily used to indicate the starting point of an action, event, or period that continues until the present moment. It is often used to express the duration of an ongoing situation or to refer to a specific point in the past from which something has been happening.

For example:

• I have been studying Frenchsince I was in high school.
• They have been living in this citysince 2010.
• She has been working on this projectsince last month.

As seen in the examples, "since" is used to indicate the starting point of an action or event that has continued up to the present moment. It emphasizes the ongoing nature of the situation or the duration of time that has passed since the starting point.

Similarities between "From" and "Since"

While "from" and "since" have distinct attributes, they also share some similarities in their usage. Both prepositions are used to indicate a starting point in time and are often followed by a specific point or period.

For example:

• I have been working on this projectfrom Monday.
• I have been working on this projectsince Monday.

In both sentences, the starting point is indicated by either "from" or "since," followed by the specific day "Monday." The choice between the two prepositions depends on the context and the intended emphasis on the duration or ongoing nature of the action.

Differences between "From" and "Since"

While "from" and "since" share similarities, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart.

1. Starting Point vs. Ongoing Duration

The primary difference between "from" and "since" lies in their emphasis on the starting point versus the ongoing duration of an action or event. "From" emphasizes the duration or range between the starting and ending points, while "since" emphasizes the ongoing nature of the situation or the duration of time that has passed since the starting point.

2. Specific Time vs. General Time

"From" is often used with specific points in time, such as dates, days, or moments. It indicates a specific starting point and is commonly used when referring to a particular event or period. On the other hand, "since" is used with more general time expressions, such as years, months, or longer durations. It indicates a starting point that has continued until the present moment.

3. Past vs. Present

Another difference between "from" and "since" is their relationship to the past and present. "From" is more commonly associated with actions or events that have occurred in the past and may or may not continue into the present. "Since," on the other hand, is used to indicate actions or events that started in the past and continue up to the present moment.

4. Verb Tense Usage

The choice between "from" and "since" can also affect the verb tense used in a sentence. When using "from," the verb tense is often in the simple past or present perfect, indicating an action that started and ended in the past or is ongoing until the present. When using "since," the verb tense is often in the present perfect, indicating an action that started in the past and continues up to the present moment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "from" and "since" are both prepositions used to indicate a starting point in time, they have distinct attributes and are used in different contexts. "From" emphasizes the duration or range between the starting and ending points, while "since" emphasizes the ongoing nature of the situation or the duration of time that has passed since the starting point. The choice between the two prepositions depends on the specific context, the intended emphasis, and the verb tense used in the sentence. By understanding the differences between "from" and "since," we can use these prepositions accurately and effectively in our communication.