since

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /sɪns/
• SAMPA: /sIns/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Preposition

Preposition since

1. From a particular time in the past until now or until a later time in the past.

   I haven't been there since 1969.

   Since you told me about it, I've been thinking a lot.

2. You use since to show that something known is the reason for something else.
   • Synonym: because

   Since John can't be there, we'll try for another day. (The audience already knows that John can't be there.)

Usage

• In the sense of time, since is usually used with the perfect aspect.

  I've been waiting here since ten o'clock.

  The school has been open since 2002.

  It was only five days since they had met.