“Absence makes the heart grow fonder” is a common phrase you might hear in English conversation or see in writing. This article explores what the saying means and its origins. It also provides various examples of how the phrase is used. You will also find alternative ways to express this idea to help illustrate the concept.
“Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder” Meaning, Origin and Examples
Key Takeaways
- The phrase “absence makes the heart grow fonder” means that when people are apart from someone or something they care about, their affection for it increases. The separation causes them to miss and appreciate it more than they might when it’s always present.
“Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder” Meaning
The phrase “absence makes the heart grow fonder” means that being away from someone or something can increase feelings of affection or love for them. It suggests that physical distance can heighten emotional connections and appreciation, making individuals more aware of their feelings for each other when they are apart.
Examples:
- “I didn’t realize how much I missed her until she went on vacation; absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
- “After spending some time apart, they realized how strong their feelings were; absence really does make the heart grow fonder.”
Origin of this idiomatic phrase
The history behind this idiom can be dated right the way back to the 1600s where it was used in a text written by a man named James Howell. There is some speculation that Shakespeare was the person who originally coined the term in the 1500s but this has been widely disputed. Most recently the phrase was used in a song called Isle of beauty which was written in the 1800s, so it is evident that this phrase has a rich history despite its origins being up for debate.
Usage of “Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder”
- In a romantic context:
“They’ve been apart for months due to work, but they say absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
- Talking about a long-distance relationship:
“Being away from each other has been tough, but it’s true what they say—absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
- Describing missing family or friends:
“After moving to another country, I realized how much I missed home. Absence really does make the heart grow fonder.”
- In a casual conversation:
“I didn’t appreciate how much I loved my hometown until I left. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, I guess.”
Related Terms to “Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder”
- Distance makes the heart grow fonder – a variation emphasizing that distance can enhance feelings of love.
- Out of sight, out of mind – a phrase suggesting that people may forget someone when they are not present, though the opposite can also be true.
- Longing – a strong desire for someone or something that is absent.
- Nostalgia – a sentimental longing for the past, often intensified by separation.
- Yearning – an intense feeling of longing or desire, especially for someone who is away.
- Separation anxiety – emotional distress experienced when separated from loved ones.
- Cherishing – holding someone dear in one’s thoughts and feelings, often heightened by their absence.
- Appreciation through absence – recognizing the value of someone or something more profoundly when they are not present.
- Fond remembrance – recalling someone or something with affection, especially after time apart.
- Emotional connection – a bond that can become stronger during periods of separation.
Other Ways to Say the Phrase
There are a few other ways in which you can express the meaning of this saying. Mostly they use language which is quite outdated but this can add a little romance to the term.
- Always towards absent lovers, loves tide stronger flows.
- Distance sometimes endears a friendship and absence sweetenth it
- Distance makes the heart grow fonder
- Lack of something increases the desire for it
“Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder” Examples
Example Sentences
If you are wondering how “absence makes the heart grow fonder” can be used in a sentence, you could use it perhaps when comforting a friend whos significant other works away for long periods of time. You might say “Don’t be upset that Jim is working away, it will strengthen your bond over time because after all, absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
Conversation Examples
The phrase “absence makes the heart grow fonder” can be used in many different conversation. Just some of those examples might be as follows.
Conversation 1:
- Person 1: I do miss my son when he is away at university.
- Person 2: I can well imagine. How to you cope with not seeing him every day?
- Person 1: I have to keep reminding myself that absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Conversation 2:
- Person 1: I don’t want to take this trip without you.
- Person 2: I know, I will miss you but absence makes the heart grow fonder so they say.