long time apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long time apart" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to two people, or groups of people, who have been separated for a extended period of time. Example: After being apart for so long, it was nice to finally be reunited with my family.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

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

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

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

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

For my sisters and me, discussing design plans and paint chips became a pleasurable way to reconnect after long stretches of time apart.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing periods of separation, ensure clarity on who or what was apart and the effects of that separation.

Common error

Avoid using "long time apart" interchangeably with phrases that imply disagreement or falling out, as it specifically refers to physical or temporal separation, not necessarily relational discord.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long time apart" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or clause. It specifies the duration and nature of a separation, often highlighting the emotional impact of that separation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "long time apart" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a significant period of separation between individuals or entities. As Ludwig AI explains, it is appropriate for written English and evokes feelings of longing or anticipation. Its function is primarily adverbial, modifying verbs or clauses to emphasize the duration and emotional impact of the separation. Found frequently in news and media sources, "long time apart" maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Remember to use "long time apart" to underscore the emotional effects of separation and not to confuse it with terms implying relational conflict.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lengthy period of separation

Highlights the duration and the state of being apart.

A significant duration of separation

More formal and emphasizes the importance of the time spent apart.

Extended separation

Focuses on the duration of being separated.

Following a significant separation

Similar to prolonged absence but puts emphasis on the consequences of that absence.

Prolonged absence

Emphasizes the absence over a considerable period.

After an extended period of disconnection

Stresses the lack of communication during the separation.

After a considerable hiatus

Indicates a break or interruption before reuniting.

Following a long-lasting estrangement

Highlights a more distant or unfriendly separation.

Reuniting after years apart

Specifically focuses on the reunion aspect after a separation of years.

After a long spell of not seeing each other

More colloquial and focuses on the lack of visual contact.

FAQs

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

You can use "long time apart" to describe a period of separation between people or things, for example: "After a "long time apart", the friends were finally reunited."

What are some alternatives to saying "long time apart"?

Alternatives include phrases like "extended separation", "prolonged absence", or "lengthy period of separation". The best choice depends on the specific context and emphasis you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a long time apart" or "a long time away"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "A "long time apart"" emphasizes separation, while "a long time away" emphasizes distance or absence.

What's the emotional implication of using the phrase "long time apart"?

Using "long time apart" often implies a sense of longing, anticipation for reunion, or reflection on the changes that occurred during the period of separation.