long time no see: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘long time no see’ mean?
The idiom "long time no see" is used as a casual greeting when seeing someone after a significant period of time. It is a shortened way of saying that it has been a long time since last seeing the person.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "time out of mind" means a period of time so long ago that it is difficult to remember or imagine. It conveys a sense of antiquity or the distant past.
The idiom "time flies" means that time passes quickly without us realizing it.
The idiom time flies is commonly used in everyday conversation to express the idea that time seems to pass very quickly or that it can easily slip away without us realizing. This idiom is understood by native English speakers and is often used to reflect on how fast time seems to move.
The idiom "see you next Tuesday" is a euphemistic phrase commonly used to discreetly refer to someone as a derogatory term. It is a playful way of indirectly expressing frustration or annoyance towards someone without using explicit language.
The idiom "see you later" is an informal way of saying goodbye or farewell to someone with the intention to meet again in the near future.
The idiom "say goodbye" means to part or separate from someone or something, often permanently. It implies a finality or ending to a relationship, situation, or opportunity.
The idiom "pay a visit" means to go and see someone or something, usually for a short period of time, as a friendly or official visit.
The idiom "pay a visit" is a common expression in the English language, widely used in both spoken and written contexts. It has a straightforward and literal meaning, referring to the action of visiting or calling on someone.
The idiom "once in a while" means occasionally or infrequently.
Once in a while is an idiomatic expression that means occasionally or infrequently. It conveys the idea of an irregular occurrence or a deviation from a usual pattern.
The idiom "of late" refers to something that has occurred or been happening in the recent or immediate past.
The idiom "now and again" means occasionally or from time to time.
The idiom "not see someone for dust" means to not have seen someone for a long time.
Chinese Phrase Unveiling Hidden Meaning
The idiomatic expression "long time no see" is commonly used in English to express surprise or pleasure upon meeting someone after a considerable period of time without seeing each other. While its exact origins are uncertain, it is believed to have originated from pidgin English, a simplified form of English used for communication between different language groups.
One possible origin of "long time no see" is its adaptation from a Mandarin Chinese phrase, "hǎo jiǔ bú jiàn," which translates to "long time no see" in English. This theory suggests that Chinese immigrants who arrived in the United States during the mid-19th century introduced the phrase to English. Over time, it gained popularity and became a familiar idiom in American English.
Another theory suggests that "long time no see" may have originated from Native American languages, particularly in the speech patterns of Native Americans in the western United States. According to this theory, early American settlers and traders adopted the phrase from Native American communities and incorporated it into their own language.
Regardless of its precise origins, "long time no see" has become widely accepted and understood in English-speaking countries. It is commonly used in both casual and formal contexts, and its meaning and usage have remained consistent over time.
The phrase "long time no see" is typically used in a friendly and informal manner, expressing surprise and pleasure upon reconnecting with someone after a prolonged separation. It often accompanies gestures of greeting, such as a warm handshake, a hug, or a friendly smile. This idiom serves as a way to acknowledge the passage of time and the value placed on one's relationship with the person they are addressing.
While "long time no see" is widely understood and used in the United States, it is also recognized in other English-speaking countries, including Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Its universal appeal lies in its simplicity and the emotions it conveys. It serves as a reminder of the importance of human connection and the joy brought by reuniting with someone after a lengthy absence.
As with many idioms, the true origin of "long time no see" may never be definitively determined. However, its enduring popularity and widespread usage testify to its significance in the English language. The phrase continues to be embraced by people of all backgrounds and cultures, drawing upon the shared experience of reconnecting with loved ones and the nostalgia associated with cherished memories.
The related idioms "long time no hear," "see you later," and "not see someone for dust" also share the common theme of long periods of non-interaction.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "long time no see" can be used in a sentence:
- Hey John! Long time no see! How have you been?
- Wow, it's Sarah! Long time no see! I heard you moved to Japan.
- Long time no see, Mary! I haven't seen you since high school.
The idiom "long time no see" is commonly used to express surprise or happiness upon seeing someone after a significant period of time during which there was no interaction or encounter. It can be used to greet someone you haven't seen for a long time and inquire about how they have been. The idiom can also be used to acknowledge the absence of contact and express surprise at reconnecting with someone, often indicating that the person speaking is pleased to see the other person again. Overall, it conveys a sense of familiarity and nostalgia in relationships rekindled after a prolonged period of separation.
More "Greetings" idioms
