以来

いらい

since, henceforth

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Usage of 以来

'以来' is a time expression used to indicate that something has been happening continuously or repeatedly since a specific past event or point in time. It often follows a noun or a phrase indicating a time or event.

Common Collocations

These collocations emphasize the starting point of a period that continues to the present.

Nuances and Usage Notes

'以来' highlights continuity from a past event to now. It is often interchangeable with '自从' when combined as '自从...以来', but '以来' alone can be used after a time phrase without '自从'.

It is mostly used in formal or written contexts but also common in spoken language when discussing time spans.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse '以来' with '以后' (after). '以来' stresses the entire period from the past event until now, while '以后' refers to any time after the event without implying continuity up to the present.

Summary

Use '以来' to express a continuous time span starting from a past event, often paired with specific time markers or events to indicate when the period began.

Example Sentences

Since that accident, he has become very cautious.

Since the reform and opening up, China's economy has developed rapidly.

He has been working at this company since he graduated.