てから

after doing, once (A) is done, ever since

Build a strong foundation of Japanese with a high-frequency grammar and real-world phrases.

てから is a Japanese grammatical structure that expresses the sequence of actions, indicating that one action occurs after the completion of another. It is commonly translated as "after (doing A)," "once (A) is done," or "ever since." The phrase emphasizes that the second action is dependent on the completion of the first, highlighting the logical or temporal order between them.

てから is formed by attaching から (meaning "from" or "after") to the て-form of a verb, creating a structure that clearly establishes the chronology of actions. While primarily used to describe sequential actions, it can also convey the idea of a significant point in time, especially when used to mean "ever since."

This structure is versatile and appears in both casual and formal contexts, making it an essential tool for describing sequences, plans, and personal milestones in Japanese communication.

Structure

Verb［て］+ から

JLPT Level

Key uses

1. Setting a sequence of actions

てから is commonly used to establish a clear order of actions, where one action must happen before the other. This is useful for instructions, schedules, or routines.

[ Additional Insight ]

This usage ensures clarity in communication, especially for step-by-step processes. It emphasizes the logical dependency between actions, making it suitable for task-oriented contexts or giving instructions.

2. Indicating prerequisites for future actions

てから is often used to describe prerequisites or necessary steps that must occur before another action can take place. It is frequently found in planning or procedural conversations where proper sequencing is essential.

[ Additional Insight ]

This form is ideal for collaborative settings, ensuring all required steps are accounted for before progressing. It reflects a proactive and organized approach to planning or decision-making.

3. Using "てから" to show causal sequences

てから can imply a causal relationship between actions, where the second action is a natural consequence or result of the first. This usage is common when describing habitual changes or cause-and-effect relationships.

[ Additional Insight ]

This form subtly highlights the progression or result of an earlier action, making it suitable for discussing personal improvements, habits, or long-term effects.

4. Marking significant turning points

てから can emphasize a turning point or significant moment after which actions, behaviors, or states change. This usage conveys a sense of transformation or continuity following an event.

[ Additional Insight ]

This use highlights milestones or pivotal events, offering a way to describe changes or traditions that stem from a specific moment in time. It’s often used in narratives or reflections to draw attention to significant life changes.

Comparisons

1. あとで (later)

あとで means "later" and indicates timing in a general sense, without the direct dependency implied by てから. Use あとで when actions are not strictly linked and the sequence is more flexible or unrelated. In contrast, てから emphasizes that the first action must be completed before the second can occur.

2. たあとで (after doing)

Both てから and たあとで indicate sequence, but てから often implies a necessary or immediate sequence, while たあとで feels more flexible or casual about the timing. Use てから for actions that directly depend on one another and たあとで when describing a sequence with a lighter tone.