a long time apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a long time apart" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a period of time during which two or more people or things have been separated. For example, "We haven't seen each other in a long time apart, but it's good to finally be together again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Homemade rugelach and a cup of tea, with my best friend, after a long time apart.

The New Yorker

Karen Brown and Gemma Coles could have been mistaken for any old friends seeing each other again after a long time apart.

Independent

He couldn't wait to do so many things with them after such a long time apart.

BBC

It's discouraging to see some of the same problems happen, to such a similar degree, such a long time apart.

Forbes

From the ascetics of the plating on that hipster dinner you ordered to the smiles on the faces of your family meeting you at the airport after a long time apart, many moments are missed for the sheer fact you would look like an idiot wearing tinted Spectacles inside a fancy restaurant or busy airport.

TechCrunch

From the ascetics of the plating on that hipster dinner you ordered to the smiles on the faces of your family meeting you at the airport after a long time apart, many moments are missed for the sheer fact you would look like an idiot wearing tinted Spectacles inside a fancy restaurant or busy airport.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

I've known him a long time and, apart from what he does on the ball, his work-rate off the ball is excellent.

BBC

And thankfully, with pre-planned trips and the holidays, we'll still see each other at least once a month ― the longest time apart being about five weeks.

Huffington Post

He added: "Parks take a long time to fall apart.

The Guardian

We would spend a long time picking it apart to eat, putting the bones a safe distance away from our plates.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Companies this size take a long time to fall apart and they take a long time to put back together.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a long time apart" to emphasize the emotional or practical consequences of separation, such as the joy of reuniting or the challenges of maintaining a relationship across distance.

Common error

Avoid using "a long time apart" when you simply mean a long duration without separation. For example, don't say "The project took a long time apart" when you mean "The project took a long time."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a long time apart" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the duration and condition of separation. Ludwig provides examples where it describes relationships, events, or periods affected by this separation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a long time apart" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English, primarily functioning as an adverbial phrase to describe separation over a significant period. Ludwig AI validates its usage across various contexts, although it's most commonly found in News & Media and Academia. While suitable for neutral and informal registers, it's essential to use it accurately, emphasizing separation rather than mere duration. Alternatives such as "separated for a considerable duration" or "distant for an extended period" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. Understanding its correct usage ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

separated for a considerable duration

Focuses on the length of the separation.

distant for an extended period

Highlights the distance and time frame.

away from each other for quite some time

Emphasizes the reciprocal aspect of separation.

not together for a significant duration

Uses a negative construction to convey separation.

disconnected for a lengthy interval

Highlights the lack of connection.

estranged for a prolonged period

Suggests a more formal or emotional separation.

in different places for many years

Specific to physical separation over years.

not in contact for a long while

Focuses on the lack of communication.

having been apart for ages

Uses a more informal expression for a long separation.

split up for a considerable amount of time

Implies a prior union or relationship that has ended.

FAQs

What does "a long time apart" mean?

The phrase "a long time apart" refers to a considerable duration during which individuals or things have been separated or not in contact with each other. It implies a significant period of disconnection.

How can I use "a long time apart" in a sentence?

You can use "a long time apart" to describe reunions, the effects of distance on relationships, or the changes that occur during periods of separation. For example, "After "a long time apart", the siblings finally reunited."

What are some similar phrases to "a long time apart"?

Alternatives include "separated for a considerable duration", "distant for an extended period", or "away from each other for quite some time".

Is it grammatically correct to say "a long time apart"?

Yes, "a long time apart" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to describe a period of separation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity based on numerous real-world examples.