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What to say after a longer absence

It’s been a while since I posted something on my blog, but it’s good to be back. I’ve really missed it! How have you been since then?

Learn 6 phrases and 3 questions you can use to greet people after a longer period of time. There is an infographic of this post as well.


How can we greet somebody that we have not seen for a longer period of time? What can we say when we return to a place we have not been to for some time?

Here are 6 phrases to say after you have been away for a longer time, or when you see someone again after a longer time.

  • It’s great to see you again.
  • It’s good to have you back.
  • We’ve missed you.
  • It’s good to be back.
  • It’s been a while.
  • Long time no see. (informal)

And here are three questions to ask.

  • How have you been?
  • What have you been up to?
  • How’s life? (informal)

We often combine these two and add some emphasis:

  • So good to see you again. How have you been?
  • Great to have you back. We’ve really missed you.
  • Hey, long time no see. How’s life?

What other expressions do you use to greet someone after a longer absence?

Here is an infographic with these expressions.

6 phrases and 3 questions after a longer absence

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