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"I was away" vs "I have been away"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'I was away' is used to describe a past action or state of being away, while 'I have been away' is used to indicate a present result of being away that started in the past and continues to the present.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

I was away

This phrase is correct and commonly used to describe a past action or state of being away.

Use 'I was away' to talk about a specific time in the past when you were not present at a place or event.

Examples:

  • I was away on vacation last week.
  • She didn't see me because I was away at a conference.
  • He missed the meeting because he was away on a business trip.

Alternatives:

  • I was not there
  • I was absent
  • I was not present

I have been away

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a present result of being away that started in the past and continues to the present.

Use 'I have been away' to talk about a period of absence that began in the past and is still ongoing or has just ended.

Examples:

  • I have been away on a business trip for the past two weeks.
  • She has been away visiting her family for a month.
  • He has been away from home since last month.

Alternatives:

  • I have not been here
  • I have been absent
  • I have not been present

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