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The meaning of the idiom long time no see is that it has been a long time since the two people have met. When you use this idiom for someone, it is generally used as a greeting and conveys to the other person that they are seeing each other after a long time. It is frequently used by people who meet after a long time. So, it is common to hear when you meet someone after a considerable amount of time. Let us now read this blog to find out the complete meaning of long time no see idiom, along with examples and synonyms.
This Blog Includes:
Long Time No See Meaning
“Long Time No See” is a friendly expression used when reconnecting with someone after a lengthy absence. It’s a casual and informal greeting, showing that time has passed since the last meeting. The phrase reflects a sense of joy or surprise at seeing the person again. It can also express a feeling of nostalgia, as it implies that the speaker has missed the other person.
Originally believed to come from a literal translation of a Native American or Chinese phrase, it has become a common part of English slang. People use it in various social settings to catch up and break the ice.
Usage with Examples
“Long time no see” can be used in various situations. This idiom can be used with family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. However, when you are using it with your colleagues, make sure to keep a check on your tone, as it can sound sarcastic, and people might be offended if you joke around. In reality, it is generally used as a greeting when you are meeting someone after a long time.
Mentioned below are some examples where you can use the idiom long time no see:
- “Hey, Rosie! Long time no see. How have you been?”
- “Long time no see. What’s new in your life?”
- “I’m missing my best friend. Long time no see.”
Also Read: 150 Common: Difficult Idioms with Examples
Long Time No See Synonyms and Similar Words
Mentioned below are some synonyms and related words to long time no see:
- It’s been a while
- It’s been too long
- It’s been ages
- How long has it been
Also Read: 11+ Popular Idioms on Time Management
Long Time No See Meaning Quiz
Here are 10 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) based on the meaning and usage of “Long time no see”:
1. What does the phrase “Long time no see” mean?
a) I don’t want to see you again
b) It’s been a long time since we last met
c) You were gone for a short while
d) I am happy to leave
Answer: b) It’s been a long time since we last met
2. “Long time no see” is typically used in which type of conversation?
a) Formal
b) Informal
c) Academic
d) Legal
Answer: b) Informal
3. Which of the following is the correct way to respond to “Long time no see”?
a) “Yes, I hope we never meet again!”
b) “I just saw you yesterday.”
c) “Yes, it’s been a while! How have you been?”
d) “I don’t understand what you mean.”
Answer: c) “Yes, it’s been a while! How have you been?”
4. What is the origin of the phrase “Long time no see”?
a) British English
b) Native American Pidgin English
c) Shakespearean English
d) Australian Slang
Answer: b) Native American Pidgin English
5. Which of the following phrases is similar in meaning to “Long time no see”?
a) “See you soon”
b) “It’s been ages!”
c) “Goodbye forever”
d) “Meet me now”
Answer: b) “It’s been ages!”
6. “Long time no see” is grammatically correct in modern English.
a) True
b) False
Answer: b) False
7. In which of the following situations would “Long time no see” be most appropriate?
a) Writing a business email
b) Greeting an old friend at a café
c) Speaking at a formal conference
d) Talking to your professor in class
Answer: b) Greeting an old friend at a café
8. Which of the following phrases is NOT similar in meaning to “Long time no see”?
a) “It’s been a while”
b) “Nice to see you again”
c) “See you later”
d) “Haven’t seen you in ages”
Answer: c) “See you later”
9. The phrase “Long time no see” is often used when…
a) You meet someone you see every day
b) You meet someone after a long time
c) You say goodbye to someone
d) You are introducing yourself
Answer: b) You meet someone after a long time
10. Which of the following is an incorrect use of “Long time no see”?
a) “Long time no see! How are you?”
b) “Long time no see, my friend!”
c) “I will call you tomorrow. Long time no see!”
d) “Oh wow, long time no see! It’s been years!”
Answer: c) “I will call you tomorrow. Long time no see!”
FAQs
The idiom is said to the other person when somebody has not seen them for a longer period of time. Additionally, you can use it when you are meeting somebody after a long time.
The synonyms of a long time no see are ‘How long has it been!’, ‘It’s been a minute’, It’s been a while, hasn’t it, It’s been forever since the last time I saw you.
The idiom long time no see can be spoken in informal conversations. However, it is advisable not to use it in formal conversations.
The best way to learn idioms is through exposure. Read books, listen to podcasts, watch movies and TV shows, and pay attention to how native speakers use language. When you encounter an unfamiliar idiom, try to understand its meaning from the context.
Idioms add colour and expressiveness to language. They can make communication more concise, humorous, or impactful. They often convey complex emotions or situations in a shorthand way. They also reflect the culture and history of a language.
Related Reads
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| Idioms for Great | Proverbs on Success |
| Idioms for Surprise and Shock | Proverbs on Silence |
This was all about the “Long Time No See meaning, examples, and synonyms. You can also follow the Learn English page of Leverage Edu for more exciting and informative blogs related to English grammar and the English language.
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