since when is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "since when is" is grammatically correct and is used in written English. You can use it when asking a question to which you are expecting an answer that indicates a certain time or point of reference. For example: "Since when is it acceptable to wear flip-flops to a formal event?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And since when is Jerusalem a settlement?

The New York Times

But since when is money just money?

The New Yorker

Since when is 'swan' a proper noun?

The New Yorker

But since when is that so important?

The New York Times

Since when is having relevant experience disqualifying?

The New York Times

Since when is an emoji a word?

University of California, Berkeley

Since when is prevention a partisan issue?

The Washington Post

Since when is Rotherhithe a "community"?

The Guardian - Opinion

Since when is ignorance an excuse?

The New York Times

Since when is he our ambassador?

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But interracial marriage since when is this a relevant topic in American politics?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "since when is" to challenge assumptions or express surprise when something deviates from the expected norm. This phrase is particularly effective in argumentative or persuasive writing.

Common error

While "since when is" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid using it excessively in formal academic or professional writing where a more neutral or objective tone is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "since when is" functions as an interrogative expression, often rhetorical, used to challenge a perceived change or contradiction. It is intended to question the validity or appropriateness of a new situation, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Academia

12%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "since when is" is a versatile phrase used to express surprise or challenge an apparent deviation from an established norm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse contexts, especially in news and media. While suitable for many situations, it should be used judiciously in highly formal settings. Remember, the phrase serves to question assumptions and challenge the basis of a new development, making it a potent tool in persuasive and argumentative communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

how long has it been that

Emphasizes duration and surprise about a changed state.

when did it become the case that

Focuses on the point in time when a change occurred.

how did it get to be that

Expresses bewilderment about the process leading to a situation.

on what grounds is it now

Highlights the justification for a current situation.

what makes you think that

Directly questions the basis of an assumption or belief.

who decided that

Questions the authority behind a decision.

where does it say that

Challenges the source or authority behind a statement.

has the world gone mad that

Rhetorically questions the sanity of a situation or decision.

is that even a thing

Expresses incredulity or questions the validity of something.

i didn't realize that was a thing

Expresses surprise or unfamiliarity about something.

FAQs

How can I use "since when is" in a sentence?

The phrase "since when is" is used to express surprise or disbelief about a situation that seems new or unexpected. For example, "Since when is that so important?" implies that something previously unimportant is now being treated as significant.

What are some alternatives to using "since when is"?

Alternatives to "since when is" include phrases like "how long has it been that", "when did it become the case that", or "on what grounds is it now", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "since when is" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "since when is" is generally more suited to informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider using more neutral or objective phrasing to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "since when is" and "how long has it been"?

"Since when is" typically implies surprise or disbelief about a new development, while "how long has it been" focuses on the duration of a situation without necessarily expressing surprise. The best choice depends on the specific context and the intended tone.