How to Say ‘Since when?’ in Japanese
いつからですか。
itsu kara desu ka
[ee-tsoo kah-rah dess kah]
💬 Usage Tip: A very common clinic/pharmacy question. You can answer with a time + [からです].
🇯🇵 In Japan: If it’s severe or suddenly worsened, Japanese staff may recommend [病院] (hospital/clinic) rather than OTC meds.
Phrase Breakdown
いつ
itsu
[ee-tsoo]
when
Asks about timing. Here it’s combined with から to ask “since when.”
それはいつからですか。
Since when has that been happening?
から
kara
[kah-rah]
from; since
Indicates the start point of the symptom.
それはいつからですか。
Since when has that been happening?
ですか
desu ka
(polite question)
Polite question ending. Here it turns “since when” into a polite question.
いまひまですか。
Are you free now?
Words in this phrase
です
desu
[dess]
(polite) be / am / is / are
Polite style used by medical staff when asking questions.
いつからですか。
Since when?
か
ka
[kah]
question marker ("?")
Makes the sentence a question.
いつからですか。
Since when?
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager