The phrase “Long time no see” is a familiar, friendly greeting that pops up whenever we reconnect with someone after a long break. It’s short, informal, and instantly communicates both surprise and happiness. But if you use it too often—or in the wrong setting—it can sound repetitive or a bit too casual.
That’s where variety comes in. English offers dozens of other ways to greet someone you haven’t seen in a while, ranging from warm and playful to polite and professional. Choosing the right alternative can help you strike the perfect tone—whether you’re chatting with a close friend, running into an old classmate, or reconnecting with a colleague.
In this guide, you’ll find 50 different expressions you can use instead of “Long time no see.” Each one comes with a clear definition, detailed explanation, example sentence, and tips on when (and when not) to use it. By the end, you’ll have a richer vocabulary for those happy reunions and the confidence to pick the perfect greeting for any occasion.
What Does “Long Time No See” Mean?
“Long time no see” is a casual expression people use when they meet someone they haven’t seen in a while. It’s usually said at the start of a conversation, often with a smile, to acknowledge the time gap since the last meeting.
When to Use “Long Time No See”
Use it when you:
- See a friend, acquaintance, or coworker after weeks, months, or years apart.
- Want to express surprise and happiness at meeting someone again.
- Are speaking informally or casually.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “Long Time No See”?
The phrase is fine for casual, friendly settings, but it’s not considered formal.
- ✅ Suitable: Friends, family, social gatherings, casual workplace chats.
- ❌ Avoid: Formal meetings, business emails, or situations requiring a high degree of professionalism.
In those cases, opt for a more polished alternative, such as “It’s been a while” or “I hope you’ve been well since we last met.”
50 Synonyms for “Long Time No See”
For each, I’ve included Definition, Detailed Explanation, Scenario Example, Best Use, Worst Use, and Tone.
1. It’s been a while
- Definition: Some time has passed since the last meeting.
- Detailed Explanation: A friendly, neutral way to acknowledge a gap in time.
- Scenario Example: “It’s been a while since we last spoke.”
- Best Use: Friends, semi-professional chats.
- Worst Use: Ultra-formal writing.
- Tone: Warm, friendly.
2. It’s been too long
- Definition: Suggests the time apart was longer than desired.
- Detailed Explanation: Conveys fondness and mild regret.
- Scenario Example: “It’s been too long! We should meet more often.”
- Best Use: Close friends, relatives.
- Worst Use: Formal business contexts.
- Tone: Warm, affectionate.
3. I haven’t seen you in ages
- Definition: Informal way of saying “It’s been a long time.”
- Detailed Explanation: Common in British/Australian English.
- Scenario Example: “I haven’t seen you in ages! What’s new?”
- Best Use: Friends, casual reunions.
- Worst Use: Professional meetings.
- Tone: Light, casual.
4. Feels like forever
- Definition: Emotionally exaggerates the time gap.
- Detailed Explanation: Adds dramatic warmth to the greeting.
- Scenario Example: “Feels like forever since we last hung out.”
- Best Use: Friends, partners.
- Worst Use: Business contexts.
- Tone: Affectionate, informal.
5. It’s been ages
- Definition: Short, casual version of “It’s been a while.”
- Detailed Explanation: Common in informal British English.
- Scenario Example: “It’s been ages! How have you been?”
- Best Use: Friends, casual greetings.
- Worst Use: Corporate presentations.
- Tone: Relaxed, friendly.
6. It’s been forever
- Definition: Playfully overstates the length of time apart.
- Detailed Explanation: Used to express happy surprise.
- Scenario Example: “It’s been forever since I saw you!”
- Best Use: Social gatherings.
- Worst Use: Formal introductions.
- Tone: Cheerful, casual.
7. I was just thinking about you
- Definition: A personal way to reconnect.
- Detailed Explanation: Adds a thoughtful, friendly touch.
- Scenario Example: “I was just thinking about you the other day—great to see you!”
- Best Use: Friends, acquaintances.
- Worst Use: Strangers in formal settings.
- Tone: Warm, conversational.
8. Look who it is!
- Definition: Playful, surprised greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Shows excitement upon seeing someone unexpectedly.
- Scenario Example: “Well, look who it is! How’ve you been?”
- Best Use: Friends, family.
- Worst Use: Business emails.
- Tone: Playful, informal.
9. Fancy seeing you here
- Definition: Expression for an unexpected meeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Works well for surprise encounters.
- Scenario Example: “Fancy seeing you here! What brings you?”
- Best Use: Social situations.
- Worst Use: Formal letters.
- Tone: Friendly, lighthearted.
10. Where have you been hiding?
- Definition: Teases the other person for being absent.
- Detailed Explanation: Suggests they’ve been hard to find.
- Scenario Example: “Where have you been hiding? I haven’t seen you in months.”
- Best Use: Friends who know each other well.
- Worst Use: Formal or new acquaintances.
- Tone: Playful, teasing.
11. How long has it been?
- Definition: Invites the other person to recall the time gap.
- Detailed Explanation: Works in casual and semi-formal contexts.
- Scenario Example: “Wow, how long has it been—two years?”
- Best Use: Social and light business.
- Worst Use: Formal legal or official events.
- Tone: Curious, friendly.
12. Good to see you again
- Definition: Simple and polite greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Neutral enough for professional and casual use.
- Scenario Example: “Good to see you again after all this time.”
- Best Use: All settings.
- Worst Use: None—universally acceptable.
- Tone: Polite, pleasant.
13. I can’t believe it’s you!
- Definition: Expresses pleasant surprise.
- Detailed Explanation: Shows enthusiasm for the reunion.
- Scenario Example: “I can’t believe it’s you! I thought you moved away.”
- Best Use: Friends, family.
- Worst Use: Very formal settings.
- Tone: Excited, informal.
14. So we meet again
- Definition: Lighthearted acknowledgement of a repeat meeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Can be humorous or dramatic.
- Scenario Example: “So we meet again! How’s life?”
- Best Use: Friends, colleagues.
- Worst Use: First meetings.
- Tone: Playful, friendly.
15. It’s great to see you
- Definition: Warm, positive greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Fits formal and informal situations.
- Scenario Example: “It’s great to see you after such a long time.”
- Best Use: Any social or professional setting.
- Worst Use: None.
- Tone: Warm, polite.
16. I’ve missed you
- Definition: Expresses that you felt the absence of the person.
- Detailed Explanation: Adds emotional warmth; more personal than neutral greetings.
- Scenario Example: “I’ve missed you! We should catch up soon.”
- Best Use: Close friends, family, partners.
- Worst Use: Formal business settings.
- Tone: Affectionate, warm.
17. What a pleasant surprise
- Definition: Shows unexpected happiness at seeing someone.
- Detailed Explanation: Works in casual or semi-formal contexts.
- Scenario Example: “What a pleasant surprise! How have you been?”
- Best Use: Friends, light professional encounters.
- Worst Use: Extremely formal occasions.
- Tone: Friendly, positive.
18. You haven’t changed a bit
- Definition: A friendly observation that someone looks the same.
- Detailed Explanation: Often used to compliment appearance.
- Scenario Example: “You haven’t changed a bit since we last met!”
- Best Use: Friends, acquaintances.
- Worst Use: If the person might take it negatively.
- Tone: Complimentary, warm.
19. I thought I’d never see you again
- Definition: Emphasizes a long or unexpected gap.
- Detailed Explanation: Works for dramatic or heartfelt reunions.
- Scenario Example: “I thought I’d never see you again! How wonderful to bump into you.”
- Best Use: Friends, emotional reunions.
- Worst Use: Very formal contexts.
- Tone: Emotional, warm.
20. How’s life treating you?
- Definition: Asks about someone’s general wellbeing.
- Detailed Explanation: Friendly opener after time apart.
- Scenario Example: “How’s life treating you? We haven’t spoken in forever.”
- Best Use: Friends, casual coworkers.
- Worst Use: High-stakes formal introductions.
- Tone: Conversational, warm.
21. Where have you been?
- Definition: A casual way to ask why you haven’t seen someone.
- Detailed Explanation: Can sound playful or accusing depending on tone.
- Scenario Example: “Where have you been? I’ve missed our coffee chats.”
- Best Use: Friends.
- Worst Use: Professional settings unless rapport exists.
- Tone: Playful, informal.
22. Nice to see you again
- Definition: Polite, friendly greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Works in nearly all settings.
- Scenario Example: “Nice to see you again after so long.”
- Best Use: Professional or casual.
- Worst Use: None.
- Tone: Warm, polite.
23. You’re a sight for sore eyes
- Definition: A playful compliment meaning you’re glad to see someone.
- Detailed Explanation: Idiomatic; shows strong affection or joy.
- Scenario Example: “You’re a sight for sore eyes! Let’s catch up.”
- Best Use: Friends, close colleagues.
- Worst Use: Strictly formal environments.
- Tone: Warm, informal.
24. Wow, it’s really you
- Definition: Expresses disbelief or surprise at seeing someone.
- Detailed Explanation: Works for long-lost friends or unexpected meetings.
- Scenario Example: “Wow, it’s really you! I can’t believe it.”
- Best Use: Social gatherings.
- Worst Use: Professional letters.
- Tone: Excited, informal.
25. We finally meet again
- Definition: Highlights anticipation or delay.
- Detailed Explanation: Often said humorously or with warmth.
- Scenario Example: “We finally meet again after all these years!”
- Best Use: Friends, old classmates.
- Worst Use: Completely formal introductions.
- Tone: Friendly, enthusiastic.
26. So good to see you
- Definition: Warm, sincere greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Works for many contexts.
- Scenario Example: “So good to see you after so long.”
- Best Use: Casual to semi-formal.
- Worst Use: None.
- Tone: Warm, welcoming.
27. I can’t believe how long it’s been
- Definition: Acknowledges surprise at the time gap.
- Detailed Explanation: Works in casual or semi-formal situations.
- Scenario Example: “I can’t believe how long it’s been since we last met.”
- Best Use: Social, work acquaintances.
- Worst Use: Formal writing.
- Tone: Friendly, conversational.
28. How’s everything?
- Definition: Broad check-in question.
- Detailed Explanation: Pairs well after acknowledging time apart.
- Scenario Example: “How’s everything? It’s been forever.”
- Best Use: Friends, light workplace chats.
- Worst Use: Very formal occasions.
- Tone: Warm, casual.
29. I was just talking about you
- Definition: Suggests coincidence and connection.
- Detailed Explanation: Often followed by a related story.
- Scenario Example: “I was just talking about you yesterday—how strange to run into you today!”
- Best Use: Friends, acquaintances.
- Worst Use: Formal meetings.
- Tone: Friendly, warm.
30. You’re the last person I expected to see
- Definition: Expresses surprise at the meeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Can be lighthearted or shocked depending on tone.
- Scenario Example: “You’re the last person I expected to see here!”
- Best Use: Friends, casual acquaintances.
- Worst Use: Sensitive situations.
- Tone: Surprised, informal.
31. Hey stranger
- Definition: Playfully suggests someone’s been absent.
- Detailed Explanation: Very informal; often used jokingly.
- Scenario Example: “Hey stranger! Where’ve you been hiding?”
- Best Use: Close friends.
- Worst Use: Professional settings.
- Tone: Playful, teasing.
32. Look who’s here
- Definition: Friendly, surprised greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Expresses joy at an unexpected arrival.
- Scenario Example: “Look who’s here! How’s life?”
- Best Use: Friends, casual coworkers.
- Worst Use: Formal introductions.
- Tone: Warm, informal.
33. Well, well, well…
- Definition: Dramatic, humorous way to acknowledge someone.
- Detailed Explanation: Adds playfulness to the greeting.
- Scenario Example: “Well, well, well… look who decided to show up.”
- Best Use: Playful contexts.
- Worst Use: Serious or formal occasions.
- Tone: Playful, teasing.
34. What brings you here?
- Definition: Asks why someone is present; works as a friendly opener.
- Detailed Explanation: Good for chance meetings.
- Scenario Example: “What brings you here? I haven’t seen you in years.”
- Best Use: Social, semi-formal.
- Worst Use: Formal writing.
- Tone: Curious, friendly.
35. I didn’t expect to see you
- Definition: Polite surprise greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Neutral enough for different contexts.
- Scenario Example: “I didn’t expect to see you at this event.”
- Best Use: Casual to professional.
- Worst Use: None.
- Tone: Neutral, polite.
36. Long time, huh?
- Definition: Short, informal acknowledgment of time apart.
- Detailed Explanation: Casual and conversational.
- Scenario Example: “Long time, huh? How’ve you been?”
- Best Use: Friends, casual coworkers.
- Worst Use: Professional settings.
- Tone: Informal, friendly.
37. We meet at last
- Definition: Suggests anticipation before meeting again.
- Detailed Explanation: Can be playful or dramatic.
- Scenario Example: “We meet at last! It’s been what—three years?”
- Best Use: Friends, acquaintances.
- Worst Use: Formal introductions.
- Tone: Playful, friendly.
38. Haven’t seen you around lately
- Definition: Notes someone’s absence from usual places.
- Detailed Explanation: Works well for community or workplace settings.
- Scenario Example: “Haven’t seen you around lately—been busy?”
- Best Use: Colleagues, neighbors.
- Worst Use: High-formality contexts.
- Tone: Casual, friendly.
39. It’s so nice to bump into you
- Definition: Expresses pleasant surprise at a chance meeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Polite and warm.
- Scenario Example: “It’s so nice to bump into you here!”
- Best Use: Social, semi-formal.
- Worst Use: Very formal letters.
- Tone: Warm, friendly.
40. I’m so glad to see you
- Definition: Warm, emotional greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Adds personal feeling to the encounter.
- Scenario Example: “I’m so glad to see you after all this time.”
- Best Use: Friends, family.
- Worst Use: Strictly formal settings.
- Tone: Warm, affectionate.
41. It’s been such a long time
- Definition: Neutral acknowledgment of the time gap.
- Detailed Explanation: Works for many contexts.
- Scenario Example: “It’s been such a long time since we met.”
- Best Use: All except highly formal.
- Worst Use: None.
- Tone: Neutral, friendly.
42. I was wondering when I’d see you again
- Definition: Suggests anticipation or expectation.
- Detailed Explanation: Adds warmth and familiarity.
- Scenario Example: “I was wondering when I’d see you again—it’s been ages!”
- Best Use: Friends, friendly coworkers.
- Worst Use: Formal introductions.
- Tone: Warm, conversational.
43. This is a surprise
- Definition: Polite acknowledgment of unexpected meeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Fits many settings.
- Scenario Example: “This is a surprise! How have you been?”
- Best Use: Professional or casual.
- Worst Use: None.
- Tone: Neutral, pleasant.
44. I’m happy to see you
- Definition: Straightforward, warm greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Shows genuine pleasure.
- Scenario Example: “I’m happy to see you again—it’s been a while.”
- Best Use: Friends, professional acquaintances.
- Worst Use: None.
- Tone: Warm, positive.
45. It’s been far too long
- Definition: Stronger form of “It’s been too long.”
- Detailed Explanation: Adds emphasis on the length of absence.
- Scenario Example: “It’s been far too long—we must catch up.”
- Best Use: Friends, semi-formal.
- Worst Use: Ultra-formal writing.
- Tone: Warm, slightly dramatic.
46. You’ve been missed
- Definition: States the person’s absence was felt.
- Detailed Explanation: Warm and personal.
- Scenario Example: “You’ve been missed at our meetings.”
- Best Use: Close friends, friendly colleagues.
- Worst Use: Strangers.
- Tone: Affectionate, warm.
47. I was beginning to think you’d disappeared
- Definition: Playful exaggeration about someone’s absence.
- Detailed Explanation: Adds humor.
- Scenario Example: “I was beginning to think you’d disappeared!”
- Best Use: Friends.
- Worst Use: Formal situations.
- Tone: Playful, informal.
48. Well, if it isn’t my old friend
- Definition: Dramatic and humorous greeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Works with strong familiarity.
- Scenario Example: “Well, if it isn’t my old friend, back in town!”
- Best Use: Close friends, informal.
- Worst Use: Professional contexts.
- Tone: Playful, nostalgic.
49. About time we met again
- Definition: Playfully points out the delay in meeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Casual, teasing remark.
- Scenario Example: “About time we met again! How’ve you been?”
- Best Use: Friends, informal gatherings.
- Worst Use: Professional settings.
- Tone: Playful, lighthearted.
50. I’m glad we crossed paths
- Definition: Happy coincidence of meeting.
- Detailed Explanation: Works for both casual and polite encounters.
- Scenario Example: “I’m glad we crossed paths today—it’s been so long.”
- Best Use: Social and semi-formal.
- Worst Use: Very formal legal or official settings.
- Tone: Warm, polite.
Conclusion
“Long time no see” is a friendly, informal way to reconnect—but it’s not the only option. By learning a variety of alternatives, you can choose the greeting that fits your relationship, the setting, and the tone you want to convey. Whether you’re catching up with an old friend, meeting a colleague after months, or running into someone unexpectedly, you now have 50 different ways to make that reunion warm, polite, or playful.
FAQ
1. Is “Long time no see” grammatically correct?
“Long time no see” is not grammatically standard English, but it is widely accepted in casual conversation. The phrase likely originated from non-standard English influenced by Native American or Chinese Pidgin speech.
2. Can I use “Long time no see” in professional emails?
You can use “Long time no see” in professional emails only if you have an established, friendly relationship with the recipient. For formal communication, use alternatives like “It’s been a while” or “I hope you’ve been well.”
3. Is “Long time no see” used in British English?
Yes, “Long time no see” is used in British English, though British speakers often prefer alternatives like “I haven’t seen you in ages” or “It’s been ages since we last met.”
4. What is the most formal alternative to “Long time no see”?
The most formal alternatives to “Long time no see” include “It’s been a while since we last met” and “I hope you’ve been keeping well.” These phrases work well in professional and formal situations.
5. Can I say “Long time no see” to someone I just met?
No. “Long time no see” should only be used with someone you have met before. It refers to the time since your last meeting, so it does not apply to first-time introductions.
6. Is it okay to use “Long time no see” in text messages?
Yes, “Long time no see” works well in text messages with friends, family, or colleagues you know personally. It is a casual greeting best suited for informal digital communication.
7. What’s the difference between “It’s been a while” and “Long time no see”?
“It’s been a while” and “Long time no see” have the same meaning, but “It’s been a while” is more neutral and works in both casual and professional settings. “Long time no see” is informal and best for friendly contexts.
8. Can “Long time no see” be used sarcastically?
Yes. “Long time no see” can be used sarcastically to tease someone for being absent, even if the break was short. Tone of voice and context determine whether it sounds playful or genuine.
9. Are there cultural considerations when using “Long time no see”?
Yes. While “Long time no see” is friendly and common in English-speaking countries, it originated from non-standard English, so some people may prefer standard alternatives in formal or sensitive settings.
10. What’s a short, casual alternative to “Long time no see”?
Short, casual alternatives to “Long time no see” include “Hey stranger,” “Long time, huh?” and “Look who it is.” These phrases are playful and best for informal situations.