1.
long silence, neglecting contact, not being in touch
A polite expression acknowledging that one has not contacted someone for a long time. Used as a greeting when meeting or contacting someone after a long absence.
Polite expression with the honorific prefix ご + 無沙汰. 沙汰 originally means communication or news.
Common patterns
- ご無沙汰しております: I've been out of touch (very polite)
- ご無沙汰しています: I've been out of touch (polite)
- ご無沙汰してすみません: sorry for not being in touch
- 大変ご無沙汰しております: I'm very sorry for the long silence
Usage: This is a standard greeting used when contacting someone after a long period of no communication. It implies an apology for the silence and is considered proper etiquette in both business and personal contexts. More formal than 久しぶり.