lengthy absence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lengthy absence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period of time during which someone has not been present or has not participated in something. Example: "After a lengthy absence from the office, she returned to find many changes had taken place."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In Scott Snyder's Black Mirror storyline, Barbara Gordon is kidnapped by her brother, James Gordon Jr., who had returned to Gotham after a lengthy absence to become a serial killer.

Wikipedia

Forster, whose knee gave way as he made a routine clearance, is now expected to face a lengthy absence.

The Guardian - Sport

Theo Walcott returned to full training with Arsenal on Monday following his lengthy absence with a knee injury.

The Guardian - Sport

One of Britain's favourite television detectives, DCI Christopher Foyle, is poised to return to television this month after a lengthy absence.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Liverpool have six league games next month alone and a lengthy absence would deprive Klopp of his team's most creative outlet this season.

The Guardian - Sport

Valencia has been converted from a winger to a right back under Louis van Gaal, and his lengthy absence limits the United manager's defensive options.

The Guardian - Sport

He found it difficult to cope with the lengthy absence and his manager at the time, Kenny Dalglish, had to restrain him from returning too early.

The Guardian - Sport

Or will he fall to one of the host of pretenders to his crown who have appeared during his lengthy absence?

The New Yorker

Bayern Munich's rising star Thomas Müller is the other new addition in the 24-man party while the striker Stefan Kiessling returns after a lengthy absence.

The Guardian - Sport

Twelve months ago Nadal watched Andy Murray beat Djokovic on TV at home in Majorca as he faced up to yet another lengthy absence with knee problems.

Independent

But the X factor for Manning's future is that, of this group, only Montana had to cope with a lengthy absence.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lengthy absence", consider specifying the reason for the absence to provide context and clarity. For example: "His lengthy absence due to illness impacted the team's productivity."

Common error

Avoid downplaying the consequences of a "lengthy absence". Acknowledge any potential disruptions or adjustments required as a result. For example: "The project was delayed due to her lengthy absence, requiring a revised timeline."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lengthy absence" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "lengthy" modifies the noun "absence". Ludwig examples show it describes extended periods of being away, often with implications for the situation left behind.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lengthy absence" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe an extended period of being away. Ludwig confirms its wide applicability across different registers, from news reporting to general conversation. Its communicative purpose is primarily to inform about a state of non-attendance and its potential impact. When using this phrase, consider specifying the reason for the absence to provide better context. While sources like BBC, The Guardian and The New York Times are among the most authoritative using "lengthy absence", it's crucial to avoid downplaying the consequences. Alternatives like "prolonged absence" and "extended period of leave" offer similar meanings, allowing for flexibility in expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prolonged absence

Focuses on the extended duration of the absence.

lengthy leave of absence

Specifies that the absence is officially authorized.

long-term absence

Highlights a long period of being away.

extended period of leave

Emphasizes the sanctioned or permitted nature of the absence.

long-term leave

Highlights the duration of the break from work or duty.

protracted period away

Emphasizes that the period of absence was dragged on.

sustained period away

Highlights that the period was unbroken and continuous.

considerable time away

Focuses on the significant amount of time involved.

long period of non-attendance

Highlights that the period of absence was unexcused.

significant time away

Emphasizes the importance of the time of absence.

FAQs

How can I use "lengthy absence" in a sentence?

You can use "lengthy absence" to describe someone or something that has been gone for an extended period. For example, "After a lengthy absence, the CEO returned to the company".

What are some alternatives to "lengthy absence"?

Alternatives include "prolonged absence", "extended period of leave", or "long-term leave".

Which is more appropriate, "lengthy absence" or "long absence"?

"Lengthy absence" and "long absence" are similar, but "lengthy absence" often implies a more significant or disruptive duration. You can use the two interchangeably most of the time.

How does "lengthy absence" differ from "brief absence"?

"Lengthy absence" indicates a prolonged period of being away, while "brief absence" implies a short duration. The choice depends on the actual duration of the absence.