順Linking sentences
And then
Put events in order with words for “and then”, “after” and “before”. Each sets a different relationship in time.
Linking two sentences
そして and それから
I run in the morning. And then I shower.
I went to the bank. After that, I went to the post office.
それから stresses the order.
I bought eggs and milk, and also bread.
It can also add one more item.
Immediately after, or any time after
~てから vs. あとで
I wash my hands before I eat.
~てから: do this first, then right away that.
I'll call you sometime after work.
あとで: any time after.
Forms
What goes before each
Even when talking about the past, the verb before 前に stays in its present form.
| Pattern | Takes | Example |
|---|---|---|
| ~てから | て form | 見てから |
| あとで | past verb, or noun + の | 見たあとで, 授業のあとで |
| 前に | plain present verb, or noun + の | 見る前に, 授業の前に |
Before
前に
I brush my teeth before bed.
I studied Japanese before coming to Japan.
It stays 来る even though it's in the past.
Since
~てから can also mean “since”
It's been three years since I came to Japan.
I've lived here ever since I got married.
And by doing that
そして vs. そうして
I cut the vegetables. And I cut the meat.
Just the next thing.
I practiced a little every day. And in that way, I learned to swim.
そうして can also mean “by doing so”, which そして can't.
Careful
From ~てから to ~たから
One sound changes everything: 食べてから means “after eating”, and 食べたから means “because I ate.” Also, ~てから needs something you can control in the second half. For things beyond your control, あとで is more natural: 薬を飲んだあとで眠くなりました, “After taking the medicine, I got sleepy.”
Check yourself
What happens first?
Your turn
あとで or まえに?
I take a walk after doing my homework.
Say it yourself
Planning your day
Your friend asks about your plans today. You'll study, go to the gym after that, and call your mother before going to bed.
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