Explanation at your level:
Hello! '〜以来' (i rai) is a small word part in Japanese that means 'since'. Imagine you got a new toy. If you say 'since I got the toy', you use '〜以来'. It tells us that something started on a special day and is still happening now. For example, 'since yesterday' is '昨日以来' (kinō irai). It's like saying something began in the past and continues to today!
The suffix '〜以来' (i rai) helps us talk about time. It means 'since' a particular moment or event. You add it after a noun that shows the past time. For example, 'since school ended' is '学校以来' (gakkō irai). It shows that something has been happening from that past time until now. It’s useful for explaining how long something has been going on. For example, 'Since I moved here, I've made many friends.' would use 'ここに来て以来' (koko ni kite irai).
'〜以来' (i rai) is a useful suffix that translates to 'since' or 'from... onwards'. It's attached to a noun or time phrase to indicate a starting point in the past, from which a situation or action has continued up to the present. For instance, '卒業以来' (sotsugyō irai) means 'since graduation'. This implies that the state or activity began at graduation and persists. It's commonly used in contexts like discussing career paths, personal changes, or ongoing relationships that started at a specific past juncture.
The Japanese suffix '〜以来' (i rai) functions similarly to the English 'since' when referring to a point in time or an event. It signifies a temporal continuity from a specific past moment up to the present. For example, 'この夏以来' (kono natsu irai) means 'since this summer'. It's often used to describe changes in behavior, ongoing conditions, or the resumption of activities. The nuance is that the starting point is fixed, and the focus is on the period that has elapsed and its consequences or continuations. It carries a slightly more formal tone than simple past tense constructions.
In Japanese grammar, '〜以来' (i rai) serves as a postpositional suffix indicating a temporal span that commences at a defined past point or event and extends to the present moment. It emphasizes the unbroken continuity or the cumulative effect of events occurring within this timeframe. For example, '創業以来' (sōgyō irai) translates to 'since the company's founding'. This suffix is particularly effective in formal writing, business contexts, and historical accounts where precision regarding temporal progression is crucial. It implies that the status quo or the ongoing narrative is a direct consequence of the events that transpired since the specified origin point.
The suffix '〜以来' (i rai) is a sophisticated marker of temporal continuity, originating from Classical Chinese. Its etymological roots, '以' (from) and '来' (come), encapsulate the concept of progression from a past origin to the present. Beyond its literal meaning of 'since', it often carries connotations of historical significance, enduring impact, or the establishment of a lasting precedent. For instance, '独立以来' (dokuritsu irai) - 'since independence' - evokes a sense of national narrative and ongoing development. Understanding its usage offers insight into how Japanese speakers frame historical events and personal journeys, highlighting the enduring relevance of past milestones in shaping the present reality. Its application can range from mundane daily occurrences to profound historical shifts.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Suffix meaning 'since' or 'from... onwards'.
- Connects a past starting point to the present.
- Implies continuation of a state or action.
- Used with nouns or verb (te-form).
Hey there! Let's dive into the super useful Japanese suffix '〜以来' (i rai). Think of it as your go-to for saying 'since' something happened or 'from that time onwards'. It's all about marking a starting point in the past and looking at what's happened from then until now. It’s a way to connect a past event to the present, showing that things have been a certain way or that certain actions have occurred continuously or repeatedly since that moment.
Imagine you visited a friend last year. If you say 'last year以来' (sakunen irai), you're talking about everything that's happened since that visit. It’s not just about that single day; it’s about the period that followed. This suffix adds a sense of duration and history to your sentences, making them richer and more informative. It’s a core part of expressing time and continuity in Japanese, so understanding it will really boost your fluency!
The suffix '〜以来' (i rai) has roots in classical Chinese, which heavily influenced early Japanese vocabulary and grammar. The character '以' (i) means 'by means of', 'because of', or 'from', and '来' (rai) means 'to come'. Together, '以来' literally translates to something like 'from (that point) coming (to now)'.
This construction was adopted into Japanese and has been used for centuries to denote a temporal span starting from a specific point. Its usage is quite consistent with its classical Chinese origins, emphasizing the progression of time from a defined past moment. You'll find similar concepts in other East Asian languages that share a historical connection with Chinese characters and classical Chinese grammar. It's a testament to how linguistic ideas can travel and endure across cultures and time!
Using '〜以来' is pretty straightforward! You typically attach it to a noun that represents a point in time or an event. Common examples include '昨日以来' (kinō irai - since yesterday), '卒業以来' (sotsugyō irai - since graduation), or 'この夏以来' (kono natsu irai - since this summer).
It’s important to remember that '〜以来' implies that the situation or action *continues* up to the present. If you say '東京に来て以来' (Tōkyō ni kite irai), you mean 'since coming to Tokyo', implying you are still in Tokyo and perhaps have been doing things since you arrived. It pairs well with verbs that describe ongoing states or repeated actions. For instance, '彼はその事件以来、元気がない' (Kare wa sono jiken irai, genki ga nai) means 'He hasn't been well since that incident'. The register is generally neutral to slightly formal, making it suitable for most everyday conversations and written contexts.
While '〜以来' itself isn't typically part of idiomatic phrases in the way we might think of fixed expressions, it's fundamental to many common temporal expressions. The power of '〜以来' lies in its ability to create nuanced meanings when combined with different time references.
Here are some ways it functions in common expressions:
- 卒業以来 (sotsugyō irai): This is a very common phrase meaning 'since graduation'. Example: 卒業以来、ずっとこの会社で働いています。 (Sotsugyō irai, zutto kono kaisha de hataraite imasu. - I have been working at this company continuously since graduation.)
- 〇〇以来 (maru maru irai): This is a general pattern where '〇〇' is any past time point. Example: 昨日以来、何も食べていません。 (Kinō irai, nani mo tabete imasen. - I haven't eaten anything since yesterday.)
- この日以来 (kono hi irai): Meaning 'since this day'. Example: この日以来、彼の態度は変わった。 (Kono hi irai, kare no taido wa kawatta. - His attitude changed since this day.)
- 初めて以来 (hajimete irai): Used to emphasize that something is happening again after a long time. Example: １０年ぶりに会ったが、初めて会った以来のように話が弾んだ。 (Jūnen buri ni atta ga, hajimete atta irai no yō ni hanashi ga hazunda. - We met for the first time in 10 years, and our conversation flowed as if it had been since we first met.)
- 〇〇以来の (maru maru irai no): Used as an adjective phrase. Example: これは１０年以来の快挙だ。 (Kore wa jūnen irai no kaikyo da. - This is a great achievement in 10 years.)
Grammatically, '〜以来' functions as a particle, usually following a noun or a noun phrase that indicates a point in time or an event. It doesn't change form itself, making it quite stable. You don't need to worry about plural forms or articles with '〜以来' as it's a suffix, not a standalone noun.
Pronunciation is fairly consistent. The 'i' sound is like the 'ee' in 'see', and 'rai' sounds like 'rye'. So, 'i-rai'. There aren't really complex stress patterns to worry about as it's a short, functional suffix. When practicing, focus on clearly articulating both syllables. It rhymes with words like 'sugirai' (過ぎ来 - past, archaic) or 'matsurai' (まつらい - a surname), though these are less common.
Fun Fact
The concept of '〜以来' has been a part of written Japanese for over a thousand years, appearing in classical literature and historical documents.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'eye-rye', similar to the English word 'I-spy' but with a longer 'eye' sound.
Pronounced 'eye-rye', rhymes with 'try' and 'sky'.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'i' as 'ee' (ee-rai).
- Pronouncing 'rai' too short, like 'ry'.
- Adding unnecessary stress on the first syllable.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to understand when attached to common nouns/verbs.
Straightforward application, but requires understanding the nuance of continuation.
Commonly used, natural flow once mastered.
Frequently heard in various contexts.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Verb Te-form
来る (kuru) -> 来て (kite)
Noun Phrases
この夏 (kono natsu - this summer)
Time Expressions
昨日 (kinō - yesterday), 卒業 (sotsugyō - graduation)
Examples by Level
昨日以来、雨です。
Yesterday since, rain is.
'〜以来' means 'since'.
卒業以来、会っていません。
Graduation since, met not.
Use '〜以来' after a time or event.
この本以来、面白いです。
This book since, interesting is.
The thing before '〜以来' is the starting point.
朝以来、眠いです。
Morning since, sleepy is.
'〜以来' connects past to now.
引っ越し以来、新しい友達がいます。
Moving since, new friends exist.
It shows something started and continues.
夏以来、暑いです。
Summer since, hot is.
Shows a period of time.
その日以来、彼は変わりました。
That day since, he changed.
Connects an event to a change.
子供以来、走るのが好きです。
Childhood since, running is like.
Can be used for long periods.
この店に来て以来、他の店には行っていません。
This shop come since, other shops to have not gone.
Indicates continuation from a past event.
日本に来て以来、日本語を勉強しています。
Japan come since, Japanese language studying am.
Links arrival to ongoing action.
卒業以来、ずっとこの街に住んでいます。
Graduation since, continuously this city in living am.
Shows a state that has persisted.
その事故以来、彼は運転しなくなりました。
That accident since, he driving stopped.
Marks a change in behavior.
この映画を見て以来、私もパイロットになりたいと思いました。
This movie see since, I too pilot want to become thought.
Indicates a new desire formed.
子供の頃以来、彼とは連絡を取っていません。
Childhood since, he with contact have not taken.
Shows a lack of contact.
この本を読んで以来、世界の見方が変わりました。
This book read since, world's viewpoint changed.
Suggests a shift in perspective.
彼が去って以来、部屋は静かになった。
He left since, room quiet became.
Describes a change in atmosphere.
このプロジェクトが始まって以来、チームは非常に活発に活動しています。
This project started since, the team very actively is working.
Emphasizes ongoing activity from a starting point.
彼女がこの町に来て以来、多くの変化がありました。
She this town came since, many changes have occurred.
Connects an event (arrival) to subsequent developments.
そのニュースを聞いて以来、彼の表情は晴れない。
That news heard since, his expression is not bright.
Indicates a persistent emotional state.
独立以来、この国は目覚ましい経済成長を遂げている。
Independence since, this country remarkable economic growth has achieved.
Used for historical or national contexts.
このレストランは開店以来、常に高い評価を得ている。
This restaurant opened since, always high reputation has received.
Highlights continuous success or quality.
彼と別れて以来、彼女は新しい趣味を見つけた。
He and parted since, she new hobby found.
Shows a new development post-event.
この技術が導入されて以来、生産性が大幅に向上した。
This technology introduced since, productivity greatly improved.
Links technological adoption to results.
東京に来て以来、私は様々な文化に触れる機会を得た。
Tokyo came since, I various cultures experience opportunities gained.
Emphasizes accumulated experiences.
この法律が施行されて以来、社会の意識は着実に変化している。
This law enacted since, society's awareness steadily is changing.
Implies a causal link between the law and societal shifts.
彼のスピーチを聞いて以来、多くの学生がボランティア活動に興味を持つようになった。
His speech heard since, many students volunteer activities interest have come to have.
Shows the influence of an event on a group's behavior.
創業以来、当社は顧客満足度を最優先事項としてきました。
Founding since, our company customer satisfaction top priority has made.
Highlights a core principle maintained over time.
この地域が開発されて以来、多くの企業が進出し、経済が活性化した。
This region developed since, many companies advanced, economy became active.
Links regional development to economic impact.
彼女が監督に就任して以来、チームの成績は飛躍的に向上した。
She director took position since, team's performance dramatically improved.
Attributes success to a change in leadership.
この発見以来、科学界では新たな研究分野が開拓されている。
This discovery since, scientific community in new research fields are being pioneered.
Indicates the genesis of new academic pursuits.
その作家がデビューして以来、彼の作品は常にベストセラーリストに名を連ねている。
That author debuted since, his works always bestseller lists names appear.
Suggests consistent popularity and success.
このシステムが導入されて以来、業務効率は格段に改善された。
This system introduced since, work efficiency remarkably improved.
Emphasizes significant improvement post-implementation.
この芸術運動が興って以来、西洋美術の潮流に多大な影響を与え続けている。
This art movement arose since, Western art's trends great influence giving continues.
Implies a sustained and significant influence.
彼の理論が提唱されて以来、学術界では賛否両論が巻き起こっている。
His theory proposed since, academic circles in pros and cons debates have arisen.
Highlights ongoing scholarly discourse stemming from an event.
この政策が実施されて以来、地域経済の構造的変容が観察されている。
This policy implemented since, regional economy's structural transformation has been observed.
Suggests deep-seated, structural changes.
その作家の処女作以来、彼の文学的スタイルは一貫して革新的である。
That author's debut work since, his literary style consistently innovative is.
Denotes unwavering adherence to a particular style.
この技術革新以来、産業界のあり方は根本的に見直されることとなった。
This technological innovation since, industry's state fundamentally re-evaluated came to be.
Indicates a fundamental paradigm shift.
彼女がその地位に就任して以来、組織の透明性と効率性が格段に向上した。
She that position took office since, organization's transparency and efficiency remarkably improved.
Emphasizes significant improvements in governance and operations.
この発見以来、宇宙論における我々の理解は根底から覆された。
This discovery since, cosmology in our understanding fundamentally overturned was.
Signifies a complete revision of established knowledge.
この都市が国際的なハブとなって以来、文化的多様性はかつてないほど豊かになった。
This city international hub became since, cultural diversity unprecedentedly rich became.
Suggests an unprecedented flourishing of diversity.
この思想的潮流が台頭して以来、我々の認識論的枠組みは根本的な再考を迫られている。
This intellectual current emerged since, our epistemological framework fundamental reconsideration is being forced.
Implies a profound challenge to foundational understanding.
この地政学的な転換点以来、国際秩序の再編は不可避の様相を呈している。
This geopolitical turning point since, international order's restructuring inevitable appearance is showing.
Suggests an inevitable and significant global restructuring.
その芸術家の初期作品以来、彼の表現形式は絶えず自己変革を遂げてきた。
That artist's early works since, his forms of expression constantly self-transformation have undergone.
Highlights continuous, intrinsic evolution and innovation.
この技術的パラダイムシフト以来、人類の文明史における連続性は問い直されている。
This technological paradigm shift since, human civilization history's continuity is being questioned.
Suggests a re-evaluation of historical continuity.
彼の亡命以来、その国の政治的言説は著しく変容した。
His exile since, that country's political discourse remarkably transformed.
Indicates a profound alteration in public discourse.
この宇宙論的発見以来、存在の本質に関する我々の理解は再定義されつつある。
This cosmological discovery since, existence's essence regarding our understanding is being redefined.
Implies a fundamental redefinition of core concepts.
この社会運動の勃興以来、抑圧されてきた声が可視化されるようになった。
This social movement's rise since, oppressed voices have come to be visualized.
Signifies the emergence and recognition of previously silenced perspectives.
この文学的革新以来、物語の語り方に関する従来の規範は覆された。
This literary innovation since, narrative's telling method regarding traditional norms were overturned.
Denotes the subversion of established literary conventions.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"〇〇以来の"
Used adjectivally to describe something that hasn't happened for a long time, 'since [event]'.
これは10年以来の再会です。(Kore wa jūnen irai no saikai desu. - This is a reunion after 10 years.)
neutral"〜以来、〜ない"
Emphasizes that something has not occurred since a specific point in time.
彼が去って以来、一度も連絡がない。(Kare ga satte irai, ichido mo renraku ga nai. - Since he left, there has been no contact at all.)
neutral"〜以来、〜ばかり"
Suggests that only one thing or type of thing has happened since a certain point.
この仕事を得て以来、忙しいばかりだ。(Kono shigoto o ete irai, isogashii bakari da. - Since getting this job, I've only been busy.)
casual"〜以来の進歩"
Refers to the progress or development that has occurred since a particular time or event.
この技術以来の進歩は目覚ましい。(Kono gijutsu irai no shinpo wa mezamashii. - The progress since this technology is remarkable.)
formal"〜以来の静寂"
Describes a period of silence or calm that has lasted since a specific event, often implying a preceding disturbance.
あの騒動以来の静寂は、かえって不気味だった。(Ano sōdō irai no seijaku wa, kaette bukimidatta. - The silence since that commotion was, rather, eerie.)
literary"〜以来の変革"
Denotes significant changes or transformations that have taken place since a particular point in history or an event.
独立以来の変革は、この国の歴史を塗り替えた。(Dokuritsu irai no henkaku wa, kono kuni no rekishi o nurikaeta. - The transformations since independence have rewritten this country's history.)
formalEasily Confused
Both can indicate a starting point in time.
〜から is more general and can be used for shorter durations or simply marking a start. 〜以来 strongly implies continuation up to the present, often for longer periods or significant events.
昨日から雨です。(Kinō kara ame desu. - It's raining from yesterday [could be short].) 昨日以来、雨です。(Kinō irai, ame desu. - It has been raining since yesterday [implies it's still raining now].)
Both relate to time periods starting from a point.
〜以来 is strictly past-to-present. 〜以降 can mean 'since' (past-to-present) or 'from now on / after this' (future). It's often used in more formal or official contexts.
本日以来、特別営業します。(Honjitsu irai, tokubetsu eigyō shimasu. - We will be open specially since today [implies this is a new, ongoing state].) 本日以降、特別営業します。(Honjitsu ikō, tokubetsu eigyō shimasu. - From today onwards, we will be open specially [can also mean starting today and continuing, or just from this point forward].)
Both are time-related particles.
〜以来 marks the START of a period continuing to the present. 〜まで marks the END of a period.
朝以来、ずっと起きています。(Asa irai, zutto okite imasu. - I've been awake since morning.) 朝まで起きていました。(Asa made okite imashita. - I stayed awake until morning.)
Both follow verbs and relate to sequence or time.
〜てから indicates sequence (event A happened, then event B happened). 〜て以来 indicates that event A happened, and since then (up to now), something else has been true or happening.
宿題をしてから、ゲームをしました。(Shukudai o shite kara, gēmu o shimashita. - After I did my homework, I played games. [Sequence]) 宿題をして以来、ずっと遊んでいます。(Shukudai o shite irai, zutto asonde imasu. - Since I did my homework, I've been playing [implies I'm still playing now].)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + 〜以来
卒業以来、彼は元気です。(Sotsugyō irai, kare wa genki desu.)
Verb (て-form) + 〜以来
日本に来て以来、たくさんの友達ができました。(Nihon ni kite irai, takusan no tomodachi ga dekimashita.)
Time Phrase + 〜以来
この夏以来、暑さが続いています。(Kono natsu irai, atsusa ga tsuzuite imasu.)
Noun Phrase + 〜以来 + は/は
あの事件以来は、彼はとても慎重になった。(Ano jiken irai wa, kare wa totemo shinchō ni natta.)
〜以来 + の + Noun
これは１０年以来の快挙だ。(Kore wa jūnen irai no kaikyo da.)
Word Family
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
〜以来 specifically refers to a period starting in the past and continuing to the present.
They denote opposite ends of a time period.
e.g., 日本に来て以来 (Nihon ni kite irai), not 日本に来以来 (Nihon ni ki irai).
While not strictly wrong, 〜以来 can sound slightly more formal or literary in very relaxed settings.
It's not just 'after', but 'since that time until now'.
Tips
Visual Timeline Trick
Draw a line representing time. Mark a past event (like 'Graduation') at one end and draw an arrow pointing to the present day ('Now'). Label the arrow '〜以来' to remember it connects the past event to the present.
Connect Past to Present
Native speakers use '〜以来' to show how a past event continues to influence or shape the present. Think: 'Because X happened, Y has been true/happening ever since.'
Historical Significance
In Japanese, '〜以来' is often used when discussing historical events or long-term changes (e.g., '明治維新以来' - since the Meiji Restoration). It adds weight and a sense of historical continuity.
Verb + 〜以来
Remember the pattern: If you're connecting a verb, use its 〜て form! Example: '日本に来て以来' (Nihon ni kite irai - Since coming to Japan).
Clear 'I-Rai'
Pronounce it clearly as 'ee-rye'. Avoid rushing or blending the sounds too much. Practice saying it with different time references: '昨日以来', '卒業以来'.
Don't Use for Future
Crucial point: '〜以来' is ONLY for the past linking to the present. Never use it for future starting points; use '〜から' or '〜以降' instead.
Ancient Roots
The suffix '〜以来' comes from Chinese characters and has been used in Japanese for over a thousand years, showing its long-standing importance in expressing time.
Personalize It!
Think about your own life. When did you start learning Japanese? '日本語を勉強し始めて以来...' (Since I started studying Japanese...). Use your own experiences to practice the suffix.
Contrast with 〜まで
To master '〜以来', practice contrasting it with its opposite concept, '〜まで' (until). '昨日から今日まで' (From yesterday until today) vs. '昨日以来' (Since yesterday).
Noun Focus
When not using a verb, '〜以来' attaches directly to nouns representing time or events: '夏以来' (since summer), '事故以来' (since the accident).
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'I' (eye) seeing something 'Rye' (like rye bread) for the first time, and ever since then, you've loved rye bread!
Visual Association
Imagine a timeline starting with a specific event (like graduation) and a dotted line extending all the way to the present day, labeled '〜以来'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three things that have happened in your life since a significant event (e.g., since starting a new hobby, since moving to a new place).
Word Origin
Chinese (漢語 - kango)
Original meaning: Literally 'by means of coming' or 'from coming'.
Cultural Context
No particular cultural sensitivities are associated with the use of '〜以来'.
In English, we use 'since' in a very similar way, often connecting a past event to the present state of affairs. For example, 'Since the pandemic, remote work has become common.'
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Personal History / Life Events
- 卒業以来、ずっと働いています。
- 結婚以来、家庭を大切にしています。
- この町に来て以来、生活が大きく変わりました。
Changes in Behavior or State
- あの事故以来、彼は運転しなくなった。
- その病気以来、健康に気をつけるようになった。
- 彼と別れて以来、気分が晴れない。
Business / Company History
- 創業以来、品質を第一に考えてきました。
- このプロジェクトが始まって以来、チームは順調に進んでいます。
- 新製品の発売以来、売上が伸びています。
Historical / Societal Changes
- 独立以来、多くの課題に直面しています。
- この法律が施行されて以来、社会の意識が変わりました。
- 技術革新以来、産業界は大きく変容した。
Conversation Starters
"〇〇（イベント名）以来、何か変わったことはありますか？ (O-maru maru (event name) irai, nanika kawatta koto wa arimasu ka? - Have there been any changes since [event]?)"
"日本に来て以来、一番驚いたことは何ですか？ (Nihon ni kite irai, ichiban odoroita koto wa nan desu ka? - What's the most surprising thing since you came to Japan?)"
"卒業以来、ずっと続けている趣味はありますか？ (Sotsugyō irai, zutto tsuzukete iru shumi wa arimasu ka? - Do you have any hobbies you've continued since graduation?)"
"このお店の開店以来、一番人気の商品はどれですか？ (Kono omise no kaiten irai, ichiban ninki no shōhin wa dore desu ka? - What's the most popular product since this store opened?)"
"あの映画を見て以来、〇〇に興味を持つようになりました。 (Ano eiga o mite irai, maru maru ni kyōmi o motsu yō ni narimashita. - Since watching that movie, I've become interested in [topic].)"
Journal Prompts
Describe a significant event in your life and what has happened since then using '〜以来'.
Think about a skill you learned. How has your life changed since you acquired it? Use '〜以来'.
Write about a place you moved to. What has your experience been like since you arrived? Use '〜以来'.
Reflect on a major decision you made. How has your life unfolded since that decision? Use '〜以来'.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsBoth can mean 'since' or 'from'. 〜以来 strongly implies continuation up to the present, often used for longer periods or significant events. 〜から is more general and can be used for shorter periods or simply to mark a starting point, without necessarily emphasizing continuation.
No, 〜以来 is strictly for past events that continue to the present. For future starting points, use 〜から or 〜以降.
〜て以来 is the verb form. If the word before the suffix is a verb, you use its 〜て form (e.g., 来て以来 kite irai). If it's a noun, you use 〜以来 directly (e.g., 昨日以来 kinō irai).
It's generally neutral to slightly formal. In very casual spoken Japanese, 〜から or 〜てから might be preferred, but 〜以来 is widely understood and used.
Not exactly. While it marks a starting point like 'after', it strongly emphasizes that the situation or action has *continued* from that point until the present.
Yes, absolutely. It can be used with events, periods, decisions, discoveries, etc. For example, 'この発見以来...' (Since this discovery...).
You would say '昨日以来、雨です。(Kinō irai, ame desu.)' This clearly indicates the rain started yesterday and is continuing.
〜以来 specifically means 'since' (from a past point to the present). 〜以降 can mean 'since' (similar to 以来) but also 'from now on' or 'after this point' when referring to the future. 〜以来 is more focused on the past-to-present continuity.
Test Yourself
昨日 ______ 、元気です。
'昨日以来' means 'since yesterday', indicating a state that started yesterday and continues today.
Which sentence correctly uses '〜以来'?
卒業して以来 (sotsugyō shite irai) means 'since graduating', indicating the action has continued from graduation until now.
The phrase 'この夏以来' means 'before this summer'.
This summer以来 means 'since this summer', indicating a period starting from this summer up to the present.
Word
Meaning
These pairs show common time points or events followed by '〜以来' to indicate continuation.
The correct order is '日本に来て以来、ずっと勉強しています。(Nihon ni kite irai, zutto benkyō shite imasu.)' - Since coming to Japan, I have been studying continuously.
彼はあの事故 ______ 、すっかり人が変わったようだ。
'あの事故以来' means 'since that accident', indicating a change that has persisted from that point.
Which phrase best conveys a sense of continuous development since a founding event?
'創業して以来' (sōgyō shite irai) specifically implies that the company's development and operations have continued from its founding to the present.
The phrase '独立以来の発展' refers to development that happened only immediately after independence.
'独立以来の発展' (dokuritsu irai no hatten) refers to the development that has occurred continuously from the time of independence up to the present.
この哲学的な転換点 ______ 、我々の認識は大きく揺さぶられている。
'この哲学的な転換点以来' (kono tetsugakuteki na tenkanten irai) signifies that the impact of this philosophical turning point continues to affect our perceptions up to the present.
The correct order is 'この瞬間以来、歴史的な変革が起きています。(Kono shunkan irai, rekishiteki na henkaku ga okite imasu.)' - Since this moment, historical transformations have been occurring.
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Summary
Use '〜以来' to emphasize that something started in the past and is still relevant or happening now.
- Suffix meaning 'since' or 'from... onwards'.
- Connects a past starting point to the present.
- Implies continuation of a state or action.
- Used with nouns or verb (te-form).
Visual Timeline Trick
Draw a line representing time. Mark a past event (like 'Graduation') at one end and draw an arrow pointing to the present day ('Now'). Label the arrow '〜以来' to remember it connects the past event to the present.
Connect Past to Present
Native speakers use '〜以来' to show how a past event continues to influence or shape the present. Think: 'Because X happened, Y has been true/happening ever since.'
Historical Significance
In Japanese, '〜以来' is often used when discussing historical events or long-term changes (e.g., '明治維新以来' - since the Meiji Restoration). It adds weight and a sense of historical continuity.
Verb + 〜以来
Remember the pattern: If you're connecting a verb, use its 〜て form! Example: '日本に来て以来' (Nihon ni kite irai - Since coming to Japan).
Example
日本に来て以来、毎日日本語を勉強している。
Related Content
More history words
歴史家
B1A historian, a person who studies and writes about the past.
滅ぼす
A2To destroy, to ruin, or to annihilate (transitive form of 滅びる).
一方で
A2On the other hand, meanwhile, or while.
〜世紀
A2A suffix indicating a specific century.
攻撃する
A2To attack, to assault, or to make an offensive.
人物
A2A person, especially one of importance or character.
興る
A2To rise, to originate, or to come into being (e.g., a state, a power).
歴史的な
B1Relating to history; significant in history.
その頃
A2At that time, around that time, or back then.
王朝
A2A succession of rulers from the same family.
