Long time no see

Meaning

The idiom "long time no see" is used to express surprise or pleasure when encountering someone after a long absence. It can also be used to express regret or disappointment at not seeing someone for such a long period of time. Example sentences:

• "Wow, it's been so long since I last saw you!"
• "I missed our monthly meetings last year when we couldn't meet due to the pandemic."
• "It's been too long since I've seen my grandparents - I can't wait to visit them soon!"

Usage

The idiom "long time no see" can be used in a variety of contexts, depending on the relationship between the speaker and the person being addressed. For example:

• A friend who hasn't seen another friend in a year might use the phrase when they finally reunite.
• A colleague who hasn't spoken to a supervisor in several months might use it when they meet again at work.
• A tourist who has been away from their home country for years might use it when they return and visit old friends.

Roots and History

The idiom "long time no see" is thought to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It was first documented in the English language in the 1930s. The phrase likely derives from the expression "long since," which means "a long time ago." Over time, the idiom has become more commonly used and has evolved to take on a stronger sense of nostalgia and sentimentality.

Synonyms in English

• Long time ago
• A while back
• Not seen in ages
• Out of sight for years
• Lost touch with

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "ha sido mucho tiempo" (it has been a long time)
• French: "c'est beaucoup de temps" (it's been a long time)
• German: "es ist lange her" (it's been a long time)
• Italian: "è da tempo" (it's been a long time)
• Portuguese: "tempo muito" (a long time)

Similar Idioms

• down the road

• let the chips fall where they may

• round the clock