C1noun 1K

Absence

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈæbsəns/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈæbsəns/"]/

Meaning of Absence

the fact of somebody being away from a place where they are usually expected to be; the occasion or period of time when somebody is away

In simple words: Not being present or available.

Absence in a sentence

• Her absence from the meeting was noted by everyone.
• The absence of evidence made it difficult to prove the case.
• During his absence, the project fell behind schedule.
• There was a notable absence of enthusiasm among the participants.
• His prolonged absence raised concerns among his friends.

How to use Absence

Use 'absence' when referring to someone or something not being present. It’s more formal; in casual contexts, use 'missing'. Avoid in very informal or slang conversations.

Grammar pattern

absence + of + noun

Memory hint

Absence sounds like 'absent' — Imagine a chair in a classroom without a student sitting in it.

Related words

Collocations with Absence

• extended
• lengthy
• long
• period
• have
• notice
• explain
• during somebody’s absence
• in somebody’s absence
• absence from
• conspicuous by your absence
• notable by your absence
• leave of absence
• complete
• total
• virtual
• in the absence of

Synonyms for Absence

• nonappearance
• lack
• void
• insufficiency

Opposites of Absence

• presence
• attendance
• existence

Common mistakes with Absence

• Confusing 'absence' with 'absent' - 'absence' is a noun, 'absent' is an adjective.
• Mixing it up with 'absence of presence' which is redundant.
• Using 'absence' as a verb, instead of the correct noun form.

Frequently asked questions about Absence

What does Absence mean?

Not being present or available.

What is the definition of Absence?

the fact of somebody being away from a place where they are usually expected to be; the occasion or period of time when somebody is away

How do you use Absence in a sentence?

Her absence from the meeting was noted by everyone.

Can you give another example of Absence?

The absence of evidence made it difficult to prove the case.

What are synonyms for Absence?

Common alternatives include nonappearance, lack, void, insufficiency.

What is the opposite of Absence?

Opposite meanings include presence, attendance, existence.

What words go with Absence?

It commonly pairs with extended, lengthy, long, period, have, notice, explain, during somebody’s absence, in somebody’s absence, absence from, conspicuous by your absence, notable by your absence, leave of absence, complete, total, virtual, in the absence of.

What are common mistakes when using Absence?

Confusing 'absence' with 'absent' - 'absence' is a noun, 'absent' is an adjective. Mixing it up with 'absence of presence' which is redundant. Using 'absence' as a verb, instead of the correct noun form.

How do you pronounce Absence?

US: /["/ˈæbsəns/"]/, UK: /["/ˈæbsəns/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Absence?

Use 'absence' when referring to someone or something not being present. It’s more formal; in casual contexts, use 'missing'. Avoid in very informal or slang conversations.

What CEFR level is Absence?

"Absence" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.