Gaining mastery over transitional phrases is essential if you want to communicate effectively in Japanese. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express “since then” in Japanese, both formally and informally. Additionally, we will touch upon regional variations where applicable. Throughout the guide, we will provide tips, examples, and linguistic insights to help you grasp the nuances of this transitional phrase. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
Formal speech is appropriate in professional and respectful situations. Here are some formal phrases you can use to convey “since then” in Japanese:
1. Sore kara
Sore kara is a common and versatile phrase used to mean “since then.” It can be used in both written and spoken Japanese, making it incredibly useful in various contexts.
Example: Sore kara, watashi wa dandan nihongo o manande imasu. (Since then, I have gradually been learning Japanese.)
2. Are kara
Are kara is another formal expression that functions similarly to sore kara. It is slightly more formal and is often used in formal written texts. However, in spoken Japanese, both sore kara and are kara can be used interchangeably.
Example: Are kara, shokuryo ni chui shimasu. (Since then, I have been careful about my diet.)
Informal Expressions
Informal speech is suitable for casual conversations and informal settings. Below are some common informal expressions to convey “since then” in Japanese:
1. Sonote
Sonote is an informal phrase often used among friends to mean “since then.” It is more commonly used in spoken Japanese and might be considered less appropriate in formal situations.
Example: Sonote, sakura no hana ga saku yo ni natte kita. (Since then, cherry blossoms have bloomed.)
2. Arraide
Arraide, although quite casual, is another way to express “since then” in informal conversations. It is often used between close friends or family members.
Example: Arraide, nagai tabi ni itta yo. (Since then, I went on a long trip.)
Regional Variations
Japanese, like any language, has some regional variations in its expressions. While the aforementioned phrases are widely understood throughout Japan, some specific regions have their unique idiomatic expressions for “since then.” Here are a couple of notable examples:
1. Koro
Koro is a regional variation commonly used in the Kansai dialect, which encompasses cities such as Osaka and Kyoto. It is an informal expression equivalent to “since then.”
Example: Koro, ocha o nomannde imasu. (Since then, I have been drinking tea.)
2. Ano raihain
Some regions in Hokkaido use ano raihain as a regional variation of “since then.” It is more commonly used in spoken Japanese within these specific areas.
Example: Ano raihain, wain o jujitsu ni toru yo ni narimashita. (Since then, I started taking wine seriously.)
Tips for Usage
Here are some tips to help you use “since then” more effectively in your Japanese conversations:
- Consider the formality: Always choose the appropriate expression based on the level of formality required in the given situation. Using overly formal or informal expressions can be seen as inappropriate.
- Be aware of local variations: If you are traveling or living in a specific region with unique dialects, familiarize yourself with their regional variations for a more localized experience.
- Pay attention to sentence structure: “Since then” is usually used at the beginning of a sentence or clause, acting as a temporal marker. Ensure that the sentence structure aligns with this usage.
- Practice contextually: To truly comprehend the different nuances of “since then” in Japanese, practice using these expressions in various contexts and seek feedback from native speakers.
By following these tips and practicing regularly, you will gradually refine your understanding and usage of “since then” in Japanese.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to say “since then” in Japanese. We explored both formal and informal expressions, with a peek into regional variations where applicable. Remember, utilizing appropriate transitional phrases enhances your ability to express yourself fluently in any language. With the knowledge gained from this guide, you are now well-equipped to incorporate “since then” seamlessly into your Japanese conversations. Keep practicing and enjoy your journey to Japanese fluency! Ganbatte kudasai!
