Finding the right words to reconnect with someone after a while can make all the difference. A simple “long time no see” may sound casual or impersonal, especially in professional settings. Choosing more thoughtful and polished alternatives can help you express warmth, genuine interest, and professional courtesy, while still keeping your message friendly and approachable.
Below are 30 professional and empathetic ways to say “long time no see,” complete with examples, tone guidance, and usage notes.
What Does “Long Time No See” Mean?
“Long time no see” is an informal phrase used when you meet or contact someone after a long period. It expresses recognition of the time that has passed since your last interaction. Though widely understood, it’s casual and sometimes considered grammatically awkward in professional settings.
When to Use “Long Time No See”?
You can use “long time no see” in casual or friendly conversations with colleagues, former coworkers, clients, or friends when reconnecting after a break. It works best in informal or semi-professional contexts—for instance, in friendly emails or at reunions—but may sound too casual for formal correspondence.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Long Time No See”?
While the phrase is friendly and familiar, it’s not always professional. In business settings, it’s better to choose phrases that sound polished and courteous—such as “It’s great to reconnect” or “It’s been a while since we last spoke.” These alternatives preserve warmth while maintaining professionalism.
Pros or Cons
Pros:
- Sounds natural and friendly
- Creates instant familiarity
- Easy to use in casual contexts
Cons:
- Can sound unprofessional
- Grammatically non-standard
- Not ideal for formal writing or new client relationships
1. Great to See You Again
Meaning: Expresses genuine pleasure at reconnecting with someone.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is versatile and works both in person and in written communication. It conveys warmth without being overly casual.
Scenario Example:
- “Great to see you again, Sarah. It’s been too long since our last meeting.”
Best Use: Networking events, client catch-ups, or email follow-ups.
Worst Use: Avoid in first-time interactions.
Why It Works: It combines professionalism with friendly sincerity.
Tone: Warm, polite, and confident.
2. It’s Been a While
Meaning: A neutral acknowledgment that time has passed.
Detailed Explanation: Slightly casual, but still acceptable in semi-professional communication.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s been a while since our last project together. Hope you’ve been doing well!”
Best Use: Internal emails, colleagues, or old contacts.
Worst Use: Avoid with high-level clients or executives.
Why It Works: Simple and conversational tone that feels authentic.
Tone: Friendly and approachable.
3. It’s Wonderful to Reconnect
Meaning: Expresses happiness about reconnecting after time apart.
Detailed Explanation: Sounds more polished and intentional than “long time no see.”
Scenario Example:
- “It’s wonderful to reconnect after so long. I’ve been eager to catch up on your latest work.”
Best Use: Re-establishing professional connections.
Worst Use: Avoid in purely casual texts—it may sound overly formal.
Why It Works: It conveys thoughtful enthusiasm.
Tone: Warm, sincere, and professional.
4. It’s Great to Catch Up
Meaning: Shows appreciation for the opportunity to talk again.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for ongoing professional relationships.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s great to catch up with you, John. I’ve missed our conversations.”
Best Use: Email or video calls.
Worst Use: Initial client introductions.
Why It Works: Balanced tone—friendly yet appropriate.
Tone: Conversational and engaging.
5. It’s Been Too Long
Meaning: A gentle way to acknowledge a long absence.
Detailed Explanation: Best for friendly colleagues or clients you already know.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s been too long! How have you been?”
Best Use: Semi-formal or casual reconnecting.
Worst Use: Avoid in formal or corporate emails.
Why It Works: Adds a touch of warmth and nostalgia.
Tone: Lighthearted and personal.
6. Nice to Reconnect
Meaning: A short and polite phrase expressing appreciation for re-engaging.
Detailed Explanation: Professional and concise, suitable for written communication.
Scenario Example:
- “Nice to reconnect, Maria. I’m glad we’re in touch again.”
Best Use: Professional emails or LinkedIn messages.
Worst Use: Very casual encounters—it may feel too formal.
Why It Works: It’s succinct, polite, and adaptable.
Tone: Neutral and respectful.
7. Good to Be in Touch Again
Meaning: Acknowledges renewed contact in a professional way.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for emails or messages after a communication gap.
Scenario Example:
- “Good to be in touch again, David. I hope your team is doing well.”
Best Use: Reconnecting with clients or partners.
Worst Use: Too stiff for casual settings.
Why It Works: Professional yet personable.
Tone: Polite and composed.
8. It’s Great to Hear from You
Meaning: Expresses pleasure at receiving communication again.
Detailed Explanation: Best suited for written correspondence.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s great to hear from you, Anna. I’ve missed our discussions.”
Best Use: Emails or LinkedIn messages.
Worst Use: In-person interactions—it implies written context.
Why It Works: Communicates warmth through written tone.
Tone: Courteous and kind.
9. I’ve Missed Working with You
Meaning: Highlights the value of collaboration and connection.
Detailed Explanation: Great for former colleagues or teammates.
Scenario Example:
- “I’ve missed working with you—our last project was a great success.”
Best Use: Professional or semi-casual reconnects.
Worst Use: Personal or unrelated contacts.
Why It Works: Shows appreciation and respect.
Tone: Genuine and warm.
10. Feels Great to Be in Touch Again
Meaning: Shows mutual appreciation for renewed contact.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for both email and verbal communication.
Scenario Example:
- “Feels great to be in touch again, Alex. Hope everything’s going well your side.”
Best Use: Professional yet friendly exchanges.
Worst Use: Highly formal contexts.
Why It Works: Balances informality with warmth.
Tone: Friendly and relaxed.
11. It’s Been Ages Since We Last Spoke
Meaning: A casual yet friendly acknowledgment of time passing.
Detailed Explanation: Works well when you’ve had a long break in communication, especially with colleagues or partners you’ve known for years.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s been ages since we last spoke, Emma. I’d love to catch up and hear what you’ve been working on.”
Best Use: For long-term acquaintances or friendly colleagues.
Worst Use: Avoid in very formal or executive communications.
Why It Works: Sounds natural and warm while expressing genuine nostalgia.
Tone: Familiar and easygoing.
12. It’s So Nice to See You Again
Meaning: A polite, heartfelt way to express pleasure in seeing someone after a while.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for both in-person greetings and written messages.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s so nice to see you again, Mr. Khan. I’ve heard wonderful things about your latest work.”
Best Use: Professional events or follow-up emails.
Worst Use: Avoid using with someone you’ve never met before.
Why It Works: Maintains sincerity and warmth without sounding casual.
Tone: Polite and professional.
13. I’m Glad We’re Reconnecting
Meaning: Expresses joy in re-establishing communication.
Detailed Explanation: Great for re-engaging with old contacts or clients.
Scenario Example:
- “I’m glad we’re reconnecting after so long. I always appreciated our past collaborations.”
Best Use: Emails, LinkedIn, or virtual meetings.
Worst Use: Avoid using when the context is purely formal or transactional.
Why It Works: Shows thoughtfulness and a desire to rebuild rapport.
Tone: Warm and genuine.
14. It’s Been Far Too Long
Meaning: A more expressive way to acknowledge a long gap.
Detailed Explanation: Works when you want to convey emotion or enthusiasm while reconnecting.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s been far too long! I’ve missed our insightful conversations.”
Best Use: With friendly clients, colleagues, or mentors.
Worst Use: Too emotional for strictly professional introductions.
Why It Works: Adds a friendly emotional touch while remaining polite.
Tone: Cheerful and heartfelt.
15. I Was Just Thinking About You
Meaning: Expresses genuine interest and warmth in reconnecting.
Detailed Explanation: Makes the other person feel valued and remembered.
Scenario Example:
- “I was just thinking about you the other day! How have you been?”
Best Use: For personal-professional contacts or close coworkers.
Worst Use: Avoid in cold outreach; may seem forced.
Why It Works: Builds emotional connection naturally.
Tone: Personal, warm, and friendly.
16. It’s Great to Be Back in Touch
Meaning: Expresses appreciation for renewed communication.
Detailed Explanation: Slightly formal—works perfectly for professional reconnections.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s great to be back in touch. I’ve missed collaborating with your team.”
Best Use: Professional follow-ups or partnerships.
Worst Use: Avoid in overly casual or social chats.
Why It Works: Combines professionalism and sincerity effectively.
Tone: Polished and courteous.
17. I’m Delighted to Reconnect
Meaning: Conveys joy and professionalism at once.
Detailed Explanation: Adds a formal touch for business communications.
Scenario Example:
- “I’m delighted to reconnect with you, Dr. Ali. Your recent research was fascinating.”
Best Use: Academic, business, or executive emails.
Worst Use: Too formal for casual or personal conversations.
Why It Works: Shows respect and enthusiasm professionally.
Tone: Elegant and formal.
18. Feels Like Forever Since We Last Talked
Meaning: A relaxed, conversational acknowledgment of time passed.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for friendly relationships with coworkers or peers.
Scenario Example:
- “Feels like forever since we last talked! How’s everything going?”
Best Use: Informal, friendly workplace interactions.
Worst Use: Not suitable for new or formal connections.
Why It Works: Natural and engaging.
Tone: Light and personable.
19. I’ve Been Meaning to Reach Out
Meaning: Signals initiative and sincerity after a delay in communication.
Detailed Explanation: Works well when you want to re-establish contact gracefully.
Scenario Example:
- “I’ve been meaning to reach out—it’s been a while since we last connected.”
Best Use: Business or professional follow-ups.
Worst Use: Avoid if the relationship ended negatively.
Why It Works: Shows intentional effort and care.
Tone: Thoughtful and respectful.
20. So Good to Hear from You Again
Meaning: A heartfelt response to someone reaching out after time apart.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for emails or texts when you’re on the receiving end.
Scenario Example:
- “So good to hear from you again, Nina! I was just thinking about our last collaboration.”
Best Use: Reply messages or client check-ins.
Worst Use: Avoid initiating with it—it’s a response.
Why It Works: Sounds welcoming and kind.
Tone: Grateful and warm.
21. I’m Happy We’re in Touch Again
Meaning: Expresses joy at resuming communication.
Detailed Explanation: Polite and approachable, ideal for professional contexts.
Scenario Example:
- “I’m happy we’re in touch again—it’s always great collaborating with you.”
Best Use: Professional emails, business updates.
Worst Use: May sound flat in casual conversations.
Why It Works: Balanced and professional.
Tone: Pleasant and courteous.
22. I’ve Missed Our Conversations
Meaning: Highlights the personal value of reconnecting.
Detailed Explanation: A great way to express warmth while keeping professionalism.
Scenario Example:
- “I’ve missed our conversations—your insights are always inspiring.”
Best Use: With colleagues, mentors, or clients you know well.
Worst Use: Avoid with people you barely know.
Why It Works: Builds emotional rapport easily.
Tone: Warm and genuine.
23. How Have You Been?
Meaning: A direct, open-ended question showing care.
Detailed Explanation: Suitable for both written and verbal communication.
Scenario Example:
- “How have you been? It’s been quite some time since our last chat.”
Best Use: Any professional or casual context.
Worst Use: Avoid as a standalone phrase—it works best with context.
Why It Works: Invites engagement and conversation.
Tone: Friendly and conversational.
24. Feels Like It’s Been Forever
Meaning: Expresses a friendly exaggeration about time apart.
Detailed Explanation: Works when you’re close enough to be casual.
Scenario Example:
- “Feels like it’s been forever! Hope things have been going well for you.”
Best Use: For friendly colleagues or partners.
Worst Use: Avoid with formal clients or executives.
Why It Works: Lighthearted and natural.
Tone: Casual and upbeat.
25. It’s Great to Reconnect After So Long
Meaning: A balanced and polite acknowledgment of the time gap.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for emails or LinkedIn conversations.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s great to reconnect after so long. I’d love to hear what you’ve been working on.”
Best Use: Professional relationships or networking follow-ups.
Worst Use: Too formal for casual texts.
Why It Works: Sounds professional and genuine.
Tone: Courteous and positive.
26. I’m Glad Our Paths Crossed Again
Meaning: Expresses gratitude and coincidence in reconnecting.
Detailed Explanation: Often used in networking or event follow-ups.
Scenario Example:
- “I’m glad our paths crossed again—it’s always a pleasure catching up.”
Best Use: Conferences, professional gatherings.
Worst Use: Avoid overuse in emails; can sound rehearsed.
Why It Works: Adds a thoughtful, reflective tone.
Tone: Polished and friendly.
27. It’s Always a Pleasure Seeing You
Meaning: Communicates consistent appreciation and respect.
Detailed Explanation: Works both for face-to-face and written interactions.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s always a pleasure seeing you, Mr. Patel. Let’s not wait too long next time.”
Best Use: Meetings, client visits, or event follow-ups.
Worst Use: Avoid using when the meeting was virtual only (sounds visual).
Why It Works: Professional and gracious.
Tone: Respectful and positive.
28. I’ve Been Looking Forward to Catching Up
Meaning: Shows anticipation and enthusiasm for reconnecting.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for setting a positive tone before a meeting or call.
Scenario Example:
- “I’ve been looking forward to catching up—it’s been far too long.”
Best Use: Before scheduled reconnect meetings or calls.
Worst Use: Avoid in written replies—it implies prior scheduling.
Why It Works: Adds energy and genuine enthusiasm.
Tone: Bright and friendly.
29. It’s Nice to Be in Touch Once More
Meaning: Elegant and polished phrasing for professional emails.
Detailed Explanation: Works beautifully in business or academic correspondence.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s nice to be in touch once more. I look forward to future collaborations.”
Best Use: Email outreach or professional reintroductions.
Worst Use: Too formal for everyday chats.
Why It Works: Sounds refined and well-mannered.
Tone: Formal and courteous.
30. It’s Been Some Time Since We Last Connected
Meaning: A neutral, polished acknowledgment of the time passed.
Detailed Explanation: Suitable for all professional contexts, including business emails or LinkedIn messages.
Scenario Example:
- “It’s been some time since we last connected—I’d love to hear how things are progressing on your end.”
Best Use: Any professional setting.
Worst Use: None—universally appropriate.
Why It Works: Balanced, polite, and clear.
Tone: Neutral and professional.
Conclusion
Reconnecting with someone after time apart is about more than just words—it’s about conveying warmth, respect, and genuine interest. While “long time no see” is perfectly fine in casual chats, choosing a more refined phrase can make your message feel thoughtful and intentional. Whether you’re writing to a colleague, client, or old friend, these alternatives help you strike the perfect balance between professionalism and personality—reminding the other person that they truly matter.
