Since vs Sense: Understanding When to Use Each Word

English is a wonderfully rich language, but some words can easily cause confusion due to their similar spellings or pronunciations. One of the most common challenges many face is knowing when to use “since” vs “sense”. These two words sound almost identical, but they carry distinct meanings and serve different grammatical purposes.

 In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the difference between since and sense, covering their definitions, uses, and examples. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of since vs sense and how to use them with confidence.

Defining “Since” and “Sense”

Since:

Since is a word that has multiple roles in English. Its primary use relates to time and reason, but its grammatical versatility allows it to function in different ways depending on the context. Let’s break it down.

As a Conjunction

When used as a conjunction, “since” connects two clauses. It can refer to time or cause.

• Example (time-related): I have lived here since I was a child.
• Example (cause-related): Since it’s raining, we decided to stay home.

Here, since links the action of living to a point in time (when the speaker was a child) and provides a reason for staying home (because it’s raining). This dual role is why “since” can often seem tricky.

As a Preposition

When “since” is used as a preposition, it relates to the starting point of an event in time.

• Example: She has been working here since 2010.

In this case, “since” marks a specific time when an action started.

As an Adverb

“Since” can also function as an adverb. In this role, it modifies a verb, often indicating that something has continued from a certain point in time.

• Example: He left school and hasn’t been back since.

This use of “since” indicates that an action began in the past and has continued up to the present.

Sense

Sense refers to perception, awareness, or understanding. It’s all about how we experience the world, either through our physical senses or through comprehension.

As a Noun

As a noun, sense represents our faculties of perception or understanding. It can refer to our physical senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell), or our intuition and judgment.

• Example (perception): My sense of smell is very sharp.
• Example (understanding): That makes sense now that you’ve explained it.

Notice how sense in these examples deals with physical sensation and logical reasoning.

As a Verb

When sense is used as a verb, it refers to detecting, perceiving, or understanding something.

• Example: I could sense that something was wrong.

Here, the verb form of sense implies intuition or perception without explicit knowledge.

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Since vs Sense: Key Differences

“Since” as a Time Traveler or Reason Giver

“Since” functions like a time machine, taking us back to a moment when something began, whether it be an event, action, or condition. It can also serve as a reason for something happening.

• Example (time): She’s been here since the meeting started.
• Example (reason): Since you’re here, let’s get started.

In the first sentence, since pinpoints the start of a time period. In the second, it gives a reason for action. The flexibility of “since” allows it to express time and cause simultaneously.

“Sense” as Your Internal Compass

“Sense” is your guide, whether it’s your intuition telling you something is off or your ability to comprehend an idea. It can refer to your physical abilities to feel or your intellectual capacities to grasp an idea.

• Example (intuition): I had a sense that today would be difficult.
• Example (understanding): Your argument doesn’t make sense.

In both cases, sense relates to an internal process of understanding or perceiving, whether emotionally or intellectually.

Putting It into Practice: Makes Sense or Since?

Now that we’ve covered the meanings of since and sense, let’s look at how to distinguish between them in practice. The question often arises: “Should I use makes sense or since?” Here’s a breakdown:

• Use “makes sense” when you’re talking about understanding or logic.
  • That explanation makes sense.
• Use “since” when you’re referring to time or providing a reason.
  • Since it’s late, we should leave.

A quick tip: If you’re wondering about the phrase “makes since” or “makes sense,” remember that the latter is always correct. The phrase “makes since” is grammatically incorrect.

Examples in Context

Here are some common examples that help clarify the usage of since and sense:

Since (Time and Reason)

• Since (time): I’ve known her since we were kids.
  • In this sentence, “since” is pointing to a time in the past.
• Since (reason): Since you’re feeling better, let’s go for a walk.
  • Here, “since” is offering a reason for the suggested action.

Sense (Understandings and Feelings)

• Sense (understanding): What you’re saying makes perfect sense.
  • This example focuses on logic and comprehension.
• Sense (feeling): She had a sense of calm despite the chaos.
  • In this case, “sense” refers to an emotional state or perception.

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Words You Can Use in Place of “Since” and “Sense”

Sometimes, it’s helpful to know synonyms for since or synonyms for sense to enrich your writing or avoid repetition. Here’s a quick list of alternatives:

Since

Context	Alternative Words	Example
Indicating time	From, After, Ever since	I’ve known him from childhood.
Indicating reason	Because, As, Due to	Because it’s raining, we stayed inside.

Sense

Context	Alternative Words	Example
Referring to perception or feeling	Feeling, Perception, Awareness	She had an awareness of the danger.
Referring to meaning or understanding	Meaning, Logic, Clarity	The instructions were written with clarity.

Origins of “Since” and “Sense”

Since

The word “since” has roots in Middle English and Latin. It originates from the Old French word “siens”, meaning “after,” and the Latin word “sentis”, meaning “from that time on.” Initially, since was used primarily to express time. However, over the centuries, its use expanded to include cause-and-effect relationships, making it a versatile part of speech.

Sense

The word “sense” comes from the Latin word “sentire”, which means “to feel” or “to perceive.” Its usage has remained relatively consistent over time, focusing on perception, intuition, and understanding. Whether used to describe physical senses or intellectual reasoning, sense continues to play an essential role in how we experience and interpret the world.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When it comes to since vs sense, the most frequent mistakes involve mixing the two up in sentences. Here’s how to avoid them:

Mistake 1: Using “makes since” instead of “makes sense”

• Incorrect: That explanation makes since.
• Correct: That explanation makes sense.

Mistake 2: Confusing “since” with “sense” in causal statements

• Incorrect: Sense it’s raining, we stayed home.
• Correct: Since it’s raining, we stayed home.

Tips to Avoid Mistakes:

Understanding the difference between since and sense is crucial for effective communication in English. Mastery of these terms can significantly enhance your writing and spoken language by providing clarity and precision. Let’s delve deeper into why this distinction matters and how it can impact various aspects of your communication.

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Importance of Correct Usage

Using since and sense correctly helps avoid ambiguity in your sentences. Misusing these words can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. For instance, if you mistakenly say “since you’re tired, we should take a break” when you meant to discuss the logical flow of an argument, it could lead to mixed interpretations. By understanding their distinct functions, you ensure that your intended meaning is clear.

Examples in Professional Settings

In professional writing, clarity is paramount. Here are a few scenarios where correct usage of since and sense can make a significant difference:

1. Business Reports:
   • Since: “Since our last quarterly meeting, the sales figures have increased by 20%.” Here, since is used to indicate the time elapsed.
   • Sense: “The proposed budget changes make sense given the recent market fluctuations.” In this case, sense is used to imply that the changes are logical and understandable.
2. Academic Papers:
   • Since: “The theory has been widely accepted since its introduction in the 1990s.” This sentence uses since to denote the time period.
   • Sense: “The results of the experiment don’t make sense according to the initial hypothesis.” Here, sense refers to the logical consistency of the results.
3. Emails and Correspondence:
   • Since: “Since you have completed the project ahead of schedule, please review the attached document.” This usage specifies the time when the action occurred.
   • Sense: “It makes sense to prioritize the new product launch given the upcoming market trends.” This usage evaluates the reasoning behind a decision.

Practical Tips for Mastery

To ensure you use since and sense correctly, consider these practical tips:

1. Identify the Function:
   • Determine whether you are referring to a point in time or providing a reason (use since).
   • Identify if you are discussing perception, intuition, or logical coherence (use sense).
2. Contextual Clues:
   • In sentences discussing temporal aspects, such as dates, times, or durations, since is likely the correct choice.
   • When sentences involve understanding, clarity, or perception, sense is the appropriate term.
3. Practice and Review:
   • Regularly practice using both words in different contexts. This can involve writing exercises, peer reviews, or using language learning apps.
   • Review your past writings to identify any misuses of since and sense. Correcting these errors helps reinforce correct usage.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Understanding the difference is one thing, but applying it correctly in every situation can be challenging. Here are some common pitfalls:

1. Confusing Causal Relationships:
   • Incorrect: “Sense the meeting was productive, we should schedule another one soon.”
   • Correct: “Since the meeting was productive, we should schedule another one soon.”
2. Temporal Confusion:
   • Incorrect: “We haven’t received any feedback sense the report was sent.”
   • Correct: “We haven’t received any feedback since the report was sent.”
3. Misunderstanding Logical Flow:
   • Incorrect: “It doesn’t make since that the project was completed ahead of schedule.”
   • Correct: “It doesn’t make sense that the project was completed ahead of schedule.”

Final Thoughts

Correctly using since and sense can greatly enhance the effectiveness of your communication. By understanding their specific functions and practicing their correct usage, you ensure that your message is conveyed accurately and professionally. Whether writing a report, drafting an email, or having a conversation, the proper application of these words helps in delivering clear and precise information.

Next time you’re unsure whether to use since or sense, remember to consider the context—whether you’re discussing time and reasons or addressing perception and understanding. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll navigate these commonly confused words with ease and confidence.

Sources

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary
• Oxford English Dictionary
• Cambridge English Grammar