Usage of 'Since' vs 'From' in English: Prevalence Explained

In English, the correct use of the phrases 'since' and 'from' can sometimes lead to confusion. Let's clarify this through an exploration of prevalence and the nuances of these prepositions.

Correct Usage with Prevalence

When dealing with prevalence, the correct phrase is 'prevalent.' For instance, consider the statement: 'The custom has been prevalent from time immemorial.' Here, we are describing the quality of something being widespread and widespread over a long period.

It is important to note that if you were to use prevalence as a noun, the phrase would differ. For example: 'Prevalence of the custom goes back to before 1189.' In this case, prevalence is a noun describing the state or condition of being common or widespread.

Choosing Between 'Since' and 'From'

Both since and from can be used correctly, but there are specific scenarios where one might be preferred over the other. It is essential to choose the right preposition based on the sentence structure and the context.

Since is commonly used to indicate a starting point in the past, often with a specific event or time. For example: 'The custom has been prevalent since 1920.' Here, the year 1920 is the starting point for when the custom became widespread or common.

From is also acceptable when referring to a starting point, but it is less common in modern English. However, it is used in certain idiomatic expressions like 'from time immemorial.' For example: 'The custom has been prevalent from time immemorial.' In this instance, 'from time immemorial' implies a period dating back to before the year 1189, the first year for which recorded laws and dates were established.

Conventions and Practical Usage

There are specific conventions to follow in English writing, particularly in British English. In England, the phrase 'since time immemorial' is almost certainly preferred. This phrase carries a specific meaning dating back to the period before 1189, when new laws were recorded with dates. The phrase implies a time so distant that it is not directly known or recorded.

It's worth noting that 'for time immemorial' is less conventional and typically not recommended unless you are explicitly referring to a period without specific starting or ending points. For such cases, you might use: 'The custom has been prevalent for longer than anyone can say.' This sentence implies an indefinite and ancient duration without specifying a starting point.

Examples for Clarity

Let's explore some examples to illustrate the correct usage:

Wearing hats for Easter has been prevalent since 1920. OR Wearing hats for Easter has been prevalent from time immemorial.

Children have been playing with toys from time immemorial. OR Children have been playing with toys since time immemorial.

Flies have been prevalent since time immemorial.

These examples demonstrate that you can use either 'since' or 'from' in relation to a relatively specific point in time, real or fictional. However, the combination of 'prevalent' and 'time immemorial' is not common in modern English usage but is possible.

Conclusion

In summary, the correct phrase to use is prevalent. When referring to a starting point in the past, use since or from, whichever fits the context better. The phrase 'since time immemorial' is almost certainly preferred in British English due to its specific historical and legal connotations.

By understanding and correctly applying these rules, you can ensure your writing is precise, clear, and adheres to established conventions in English grammar and usage.