Since vs Sense When to Use Each Word

Since vs Sense When to Use Each Word: If you’ve ever found yourself confused about whether to use “since” or “sense,” you’re not alone. These two words look and sound quite similar, but they serve very different purposes in the English language. In fact, “since” and “sense” are perfect examples of how small differences in spelling or pronunciation can change the meaning and usage of words entirely.

In this article, we’ll break down exactly when and how to use “since” and “sense” in everyday English. We’ll define each word, show examples of how they’re used, and explore the different contexts that will help you make the right choice every time. Let’s dive in!

Definition

Since

The word “since” is a versatile word that can be used as a preposition, conjunction, or adverb. It often refers to a specific time, a starting point, or a cause-and-effect relationship.

• Preposition: Indicates the starting point of something.
• Conjunction: Explains the reason for an action or event.
• Adverb: Refers to the time elapsed since an event.

Sense

“Sense” can be used as a noun or a verb. It typically refers to perception, meaning, or judgment. It’s all about how we experience or understand the world around us.

• Noun: Refers to physical perceptions (such as sight, taste, or smell), meaning, or understanding.
• Verb: Refers to the act of perceiving or becoming aware of something.

Meaning & Explanation

When to Use “Since”

“Since” is typically used in contexts involving time or causality. Let’s look at the different uses:

• As a Preposition (Time-Related): When you’re indicating a starting point in time.
  
  • Example: “I have known her since 2010.”
    This tells us the exact time or point when the action began.
• As a Conjunction (Cause and Effect): To explain why something happens or why it’s the case.
  
  • Example: “Since it’s raining, we should stay indoors.”
    Here, “since” is explaining the reason for staying indoors.
• As an Adverb (Time Passed): Refers to how much time has passed from an event until the present moment.
  
  • Example: “I haven’t seen him since last Friday.”
    This suggests that the last time you saw him was on Friday, and now it’s a new point in time.

When to Use “Sense”

On the other hand, “sense” is all about perception, judgment, or understanding. Let’s break it down:

• As a Noun (Physical Perception): Refers to the five senses—sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing.
  
  • Example: “She has an incredible sense of hearing.”
    Here, we’re talking about one of the physical senses—how well she perceives sound.
• As a Noun (Meaning or Understanding): Refers to logical understanding or coherence.
  
  • Example: “That explanation doesn’t make any sense.”
    This suggests that the explanation is illogical or confusing.
• As a Noun (Judgment or Awareness): Refers to a person’s judgment, intuition, or awareness of something.
  
  • Example: “He has a great sense of humor.”
    This shows that the person understands humor very well.
• As a Verb (Perception or Awareness): Refers to the act of becoming aware of something.
  
  • Example: “I could sense that something was wrong.”
    Here, “sense” is describing an intuitive feeling or awareness.

Examples & Usage

Examples of “Since”

1. “I’ve been studying Spanish since high school.”
   • This sentence implies the action of studying Spanish began in high school and continues to the present.
2. “She hasn’t visited me since last winter.”
   • This suggests the most recent visit was last winter, and there has been no visit since then.
3. “We’ve been friends since childhood.”
   • This highlights a relationship that started at a young age and has lasted over time.

Examples of “Sense”

1. “This doesn’t make any sense.”
   
   • Here, sense refers to logic or meaning. The sentence implies that something is confusing or unclear.
2. “I could sense the tension in the room.”
   
   • This use of sense refers to an intuitive feeling or awareness about the situation.
3. “She has a sharp sense of direction.”
   
   • In this example, sense is used to describe someone’s ability to judge or perceive directions accurately.

Types & Categories

Types of “Since”

Type	Description	Example
Time-Related Usage	Refers to a point in time when something began.	“I’ve known him since 2000.”
Cause-and-Effect Usage	Explains why something is happening.	“Since it’s late, we should head home.”
Duration of Time	Describes the amount of time passed from an event.	“I’ve been working here since 9 AM.”

Types of “Sense”

Type	Description	Example
Physical Perception	Refers to the five senses (sight, smell, touch, etc.).	“She has a strong sense of taste.”
Meaning or Understanding	Refers to logical meaning or understanding.	“It makes no sense to wait.”
Judgment or Awareness	Refers to a person’s intuitive understanding or judgment.	“He has a great sense of timing.”
Intuitive Perception	Refers to a feeling or hunch that someone gets about a situation.	“I sensed she was upset.”

Related Words & Synonyms

Synonyms for “Since”

• From
• As of
• Because
• After
• Given

Synonyms for “Sense”

• Perception
• Feeling
• Meaning
• Understanding
• Judgment
• Intuition

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use “since” to refer to an event in the past?

Yes! “Since” can be used to refer to an event in the past, especially when you’re talking about when something started. For example: “I’ve been here since Monday.”

Q2: Can I use “sense” in reference to time?

No, “sense” is not used to refer to time. For time references, “since” is the correct word to use.

Q3: How do I know whether to use “since” or “sense”?

• Use “since” when referring to a starting point in time or when explaining the reason for something.
• Use “sense” when talking about perception, logical meaning, or judgment.

Q4: Can “sense” and “since” be used interchangeably?

No, “sense” and “since” cannot be used interchangeably. “Since” refers to time or causality, while “sense” is all about perception, meaning, or judgment.

Q5: What’s the difference between “sense” and “scent”?

“Scent” refers to a smell, while “sense” refers to perception or understanding. They are homophones (sound the same) but have different meanings and spellings.

Conclusion

To summarize:

• “Since” is used to refer to time or causality, whether it’s a starting point or an explanation for something.
• “Sense” refers to perceptions, meanings, and judgments, whether through physical senses, logical reasoning, or intuitive feelings.

Now that you’ve got the hang of using “since” and “sense,” you’ll find that choosing the right word is much easier. Whether you’re discussing the passage of time with “since” or expressing feelings and understanding with “sense,” getting these words right will help you communicate more clearly and confidently.

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