Learning how to express “ever since” in Japanese is essential for effective communication and conveying the passage of time. Whether you want to explain when a certain event began, talk about ongoing situations, or simply express your experiences, mastering this phrase will greatly enhance your Japanese conversations. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “ever since” in Japanese, providing numerous tips, examples, and regional variations if applicable.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
1. から (kara):
The most common formal way to say “ever since” in Japanese is by using the particle “から” (kara). This particle marks the starting point or cause of an action, making it ideal for expressing the concept of “ever since” when used with the past tense.
Example: 高校を卒業してから、日本語を勉強しています (Koukou o sotsugyou shite kara, nihongo o benkyou shiteimasu).
Translation: I have been studying Japanese ever since I graduated from high school.
2. 以来 (irai):
Another formal expression for “ever since” in Japanese is “以来” (irai). This term indicates a point in time from which a certain state or event has continued, often used in formal or written contexts.
Example: 結婚して以来、彼女は専業主婦です (Kekkon shite irai, kanojo wa sengyou shufu desu).
Translation: Ever since getting married, she has been a housewife.
3. 自 (ji) + 以来 (irai):
For a more formal or literary expression of “ever since,” you can combine “自” (ji) meaning “since” and “以来” (irai) as mentioned earlier. This combination adds a sense of formality and elegance to your statement.
Example: 彼は昔の出来事を自以来忘れられない (Kare wa mukashi no dekigoto o jiirai wasurerarenai).
Translation: He has never been able to forget the past incident ever since.
Informal Expressions
1. から (kara):
Just as in formal expressions, the particle “から” (kara) can be used to express “ever since” in informal conversations as well. It is worth noting that the level of politeness or formality of your speech will depend on the overall context and relationship with the listener.
Example: 昨日から雨が降っています (Kinou kara ame ga futteimasu).
Translation: It has been raining ever since yesterday.
2. ので (node):
The conjunction “ので” (node) can also be employed to convey the meaning of “ever since” in informal contexts. It is often used to express a cause-and-effect relationship, emphasizing the continuous state or action after a specific event.
Example: 転職したので、やりがいを感じています (Tenshoku shita node, yarigai o kanjiteimasu).
Translation: I have been feeling a sense of fulfillment ever since changing jobs.
3. っから (kkara):
In more colloquial settings, you may come across the contraction “っから” (kkara), which is derived from “から” (kara). This form is commonly used in informal conversation or casual written contexts.
Example: 映画が好きなので、小さい頃っから映画館に行っていました (Eiga ga suki na node, chiisai koro kkara eigakan ni itteimashita).
Translation: I have been going to the movie theater since I was little because I love movies.
Regional Variations
Japanese, like any other language, may exhibit regional variations in the use of certain expressions or vocabulary. However, when it comes to saying “ever since,” there are no significant regional differences. The formal and informal expressions mentioned earlier are widely understood and accepted across different Japanese regions.
Tips for Usage
- Pay attention to the overall context and relationship with the listener to determine the level of politeness or formality required when using these expressions.
- Since “から” (kara) can have various meanings depending on the context, it is crucial to ensure clarity through sentence structure or additional context.
- In written Japanese, “以来” (irai) is often used to convey a more formal tone, making it suitable for business or official correspondences.
Now that you are familiar with both formal and informal ways to say “ever since” in Japanese, you can confidently express the passage of time and ongoing situations in your conversations. Remember to utilize these expressions appropriately, considering the context and level of politeness required to ensure effective communication.
