we haven't spoken

USAGE SUMMARY

'we haven't spoken' is a correct and usable sentence in written English.
You can use this sentence to talk about something that has not happened recently. For example, "It's been so long since we last saw each other – we haven't spoken in months!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We haven't spoken since.

The New York Times

We haven't spoken since then.

The New York Times - Sports

"And we haven't spoken since".

The New York Times

"We haven't spoken about the contract yet.

Independent

We haven't spoken since I quit.

The Guardian

It was very painful, and we haven't spoken since.

The New York Times

We haven't spoken in over 10 years, but bad news.

The New York Times

"But we haven't spoken with them about the specifics".

The New York Times

We haven't spoken since I last logged on to Ello.

The Guardian

I've no idea, we haven't spoken for three weeks.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We haven't spoken, and it bothers me," he added about Mr. Molinari.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we haven't spoken" to clearly and directly state a lack of recent communication, especially after a specific event or disagreement.

Common error

Avoid using "we haven't spoken" when the lack of communication is already obvious to the listener or reader. Provide context if needed to clarify the duration or reason for the silence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we haven't spoken" functions as a declarative statement indicating that a conversation or communication has not occurred between two or more individuals. It is often used to provide context or explain a current situation, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we haven't spoken" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate a lack of recent communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is broadly applicable, particularly within news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, consider slightly more formal alternatives in professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure the lack of communication isn't already obvious to your audience. Related phrases, such as "we've lost touch" or "we haven't been in touch", can add nuance depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we've stopped talking

Highlights the cessation of verbal communication.

we've lost touch

Focuses on the gradual fading of contact rather than a specific event causing it.

we haven't been in touch

Similar to 'we've lost touch' but can also imply a temporary interruption.

we're not in contact anymore

States a factual lack of communication, often implying a conscious decision.

we don't communicate anymore

Emphasizes the absence of ongoing communication.

we're no longer on speaking terms

Indicates a more formal and potentially strained relationship.

communication has ceased

A more formal way of saying communication has stopped.

we're estranged

Implies a significant breakdown in the relationship, often within a family.

we see each other no more

Emphasizes the absence of physical interaction and communication.

we've parted ways

Indicates a separation, not necessarily implying animosity but a divergence of paths.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "we haven't spoken"?

It generally means that two or more people have not communicated with each other recently. The phrase can imply various reasons for the lack of communication, ranging from a simple absence of opportunity to a deliberate avoidance after a disagreement.

How long of a period would justify saying "we haven't spoken"?

The timeframe is subjective and depends on the typical communication frequency between the individuals. It could range from a few days for close friends to several months or years for more distant acquaintances. Consider if a noticeable departure from established patterns has occurred. If your normal behavior is to talk everyday and you haven't talked in 2 days, that could be a good use for this phrase.

What are some less direct ways to say "we haven't spoken"?

You could use alternatives like "we've lost touch", "we haven't been in touch", or "we've stopped talking" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "we haven't spoken" appropriate in a formal setting?

It depends on the context. In a professional environment, it may be more suitable to use phrases like "we have not had the opportunity to discuss this recently" or "communication has been limited". However, in more casual business conversation, "we haven't spoken" can be acceptable.