since when did you start

USAGE SUMMARY

'Since when did you start' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a way to inquire about the origin or beginning of something. For example: "I noticed you've been playing chess lately. Since when did you start?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Since when did you start sounding like a choirboy?

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

When did you start?

The New York Times

When did you start RAW?

The New York Times

When did you start collecting?

The New York Times - Magazine

When did you start writing?

The New Yorker

When did you start working?

The New York Times

When did you start doing this?

The New York Times - Magazine

When did you start that?

Harvard University

When did you start NOBO?

Columbia University

J.E-L.: When did you start surfing?

The New York Times

When did you start writing about food?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Since when did you start", ensure that the context makes it clear what 'start' refers to. Be specific about the activity or behavior you're questioning to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "Since when did you start" in situations where it might sound accusatory. The phrase can sometimes imply distrust or disapproval, so be mindful of your tone and the relationship with the person you're addressing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Since when did you start" functions as an interrogative expression used to inquire about the commencement of an action, behavior, or state. It often carries an implication of surprise or mild challenge, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Since when did you start" is an interrogative phrase used to inquire about the start of an activity, typically with an undertone of surprise or skepticism. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and commonly used, predominantly in news and media, academia, and general conversation. While versatile, its use requires careful consideration of tone to avoid unintended accusatory implications. Alternatives like "when did you start" or "how long have you been doing this" can offer a more neutral approach, ensuring clear and positive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

When did you begin?

This is a more concise and direct way of asking about the starting time.

At what point did you initiate this?

This version is slightly more formal, emphasizing the initiation of a process or activity.

How long have you been doing this?

This focuses on the duration of the activity rather than the precise starting point.

What year did you commence?

This version is particularly suitable if the specific year of beginning is required.

When was the genesis of this activity for you?

This is a more formal and emphatic way of asking about the origin or start.

How did you get started?

This focuses on the method or circumstances of beginning the activity.

What was the starting point for you?

This version emphasizes the initial event or condition that led to the activity.

On what occasion did you start?

This is used when referring to specific events or circumstances that coincide with the commencement.

What prompted you to start?

This version emphasizes the motivation or reason behind initiating the activity.

What's the origin story of your involvement?

This is a more narrative approach, suitable for informal conversations about personal history.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "Since when did you start" to sound more neutral?

To sound more neutral, you can use alternatives like "when did you start" or "how long have you been doing this", which lack the element of surprise or skepticism.

Is it appropriate to use "Since when did you start" in formal settings?

The phrase "Since when did you start" is generally more appropriate for informal conversations. In formal settings, it's better to use phrases like "when did you begin" or "at what point did you initiate this".

What's the difference between "When did you start" and "Since when did you start"?

"When did you start" is a straightforward question about the beginning of an activity. "Since when did you start" implies surprise or a change in behavior, suggesting the activity is new or unexpected.

Can "Since when did you start" be used to challenge someone's authority or expertise?

Yes, the phrase "Since when did you start" can be used sarcastically to question someone's qualifications or recent adoption of a behavior, implying a lack of experience or credibility. Its effectiveness depends heavily on tone and context.