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since when
/sɪns wɛn/
from what time
Since when do you start work at 9 AM?
This phrase questions the validity of a stated time or condition.
informal
from what time or point in the past
Since when did you become an expert on this topic?
Questioning someone's sudden claim to expertise.
Since when is it acceptable to arrive late without notice?
Expressing surprise or disapproval at a new rule or behavior.
Often used rhetorically to express disbelief or challenge a statement. Can imply 'I never agreed to this.'
Collocations
since when did...?used to question the validity of a sudden change or claimsince when was...?used to challenge a newly stated fact or rule
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Rhetorical Challenge
Use 'since when' to politely or sarcastically question a sudden change in rules, expectations, or someone's behavior. Example: 'Since when do we have to ask permission to take a break?'
Gold Rule
Tone Awareness
'Since when' can sound confrontational or sarcastic. Use it carefully in professional settings to avoid sounding rude.
Word Origin
Combination of 'since' (from Old English 'sithan' meaning 'after that') and 'when' (from Old English 'hwenne' meaning 'at what time'). The phrase emerged in Middle English as a way to question the origin of a temporal condition.
Usage Notes
Primarily used in informal speech to express surprise or skepticism. Often rhetorical with an implied 'I never agreed to this.' Not used in formal writing.
Word Breakdown
since
from a particular time
prepositionwhen
at what time
adverbEnglish Dictionary