How to Say ‘Long time no see; it’s been a while’ in Japanese
お久しぶり
o hisashi buri
[oh hee-sah-shee boo-ree]
🇯🇵 In Japan: [お久しぶり] is a friendly polite way to greet someone you haven't seen in a while. With in-laws, adding [です] as in [お久しぶりです。] is the safer default.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[oh]
honorific prefix
A polite prefix added to certain words to make the expression more respectful and natural.
お久しぶりですね。
It has been a long time, hasn't it?
久し
hisashi
[hee-sah-shee]
long time
This part comes from a word meaning 'after a long time' or 'for the first time in a while.'
久しぶりに会いました。
I met them for the first time in a long while.
ぶり
buri
[boo-ree]
after a long time
This ending completes the expression 久しぶり, meaning 'it has been a while.'
ぶりは久しぶりで使います。
Buri is used in hisashiburi.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager