for the first time in a long time vs for the first time in a while

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey a similar meaning of experiencing something new after a long period of time. 'For the first time in a long time' emphasizes a longer duration of absence, while 'for the first time in a while' suggests a shorter period of time.

Last updated: April 13, 2024 • 1204 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate experiencing something new after a long period of time.

"for the first time in a long time"

This phrase is used to emphasize a longer duration of absence before experiencing something new or doing something again.

Examples:

I saw my childhood friend for the first time in a long time.
For the first time in a long time, I felt truly happy.
She visited her hometown for the first time in a long time.

Show examples from the web [+]

Nov 23, 2017 ... Example: Fly to the Sky released a song for the first time in a long time. But saying "first time in a long time" is a little repetitive.
Jan 21, 2020 ... Recipient Testimonial: “I'm finally able to see a sunrise for the first time in a long time.” As a single mother of two young girls, I found ...
for the first time in a long time · for the first time in a long while · for the first time in a really long time · for the first time in a while.

Alternatives:

after a long time
after a considerable period
after a prolonged absence
for the first time in ages
for the first time in years

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate experiencing something new after a shorter period of time.

"for the first time in a while"

This phrase is used to suggest a shorter duration of absence before experiencing something new or doing something again.

Examples:

I went out for dinner for the first time in a while.
For the first time in a while, I felt motivated to exercise.
He called me for the first time in a while.

Show examples from the web [+]

Hi all. I would like to know how does the phrase for the first time in a while sound to native speakers. Say, you have a friend who lives in ...
Is this your own sentence, Verra? I'd understand "for the first time in a while" as meaning "after a long time" (for the first time after a ...
Sep 12, 2022 ... Browns victory has Cleveland sports fans smiling for the first time in a while. The clouds that hung over FirstEnergy Stadium for the better ...
May 19, 2022 ... Updated the group photos for the first time in a while! CategoriesGallery. Leave a Reply Cancel reply. Your email address will not be ...
Jun 9, 2022 ... 'Jurassic World' vs 'Top Gun': Two blockbusters are squaring off at the box office for the first time in a while.
for the first time in a while · time in a long time · very first time · after a long interval · after long · first time in a really long time.

Alternatives:

after a short time
after a brief period
after a short absence
for the first time in some time
for the first time in a short while

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