"in the absence of" vs "with the absence of"

Question

"in the absence of" vs "with the absence of"

Both "in the absence of" and "with the absence of" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "In the absence of" is the more common and idiomatic phrase, indicating something that is missing or not present. On the other hand, "with the absence of" is less common and may sound awkward in some contexts.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that something is missing or not present. It is often used to describe a situation where something is lacking.

Examples:

In the absence of clear instructions, we had to figure it out on our own.
In the absence of evidence, the case was dismissed.
In the absence of a better solution, we will have to make do with what we have.
In the absence of a valid ID, you cannot enter the building.
In the absence of a response, we assumed they were not interested.

Alternatives:

without
lacking
devoid of
missing
in the event of the lack of

This phrase can be used to convey the idea of something being missing or not present, but it may sound more formal or awkward compared to "in the absence of."

Alternatives:

in the absence of
without
lacking
devoid of
missing

Answer 1

in the absence of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

with the absence of

This phrase is correct but less common in English.

"in the absence of" vs "with the absence of"

in the absence of

with the absence of

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