It's been for a while (Present Perfect's sense)

[Kolridg]

I would like to ask a question about introductory phrase "It's been for a while" which we usually use when speak again to a person after a long break. Does Present Perfect there implies relevance of not talking to each other in the present, or if it is used to suggest that there has been no communication up to the present moment? Much thanks.

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

The phrase is incorrect. Use either It's been a while or for a while. Don't combine them.

Examples:

- It's been a while since I've seen you.
- I haven't seen you for a while.
- We haven't gotten together for quite a while.
- It's quite a while since we've seen each other.
- Long time no see! It's been a while!
- I haven't seen you for a long, long while.

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

The expression is normally "It's been for a while" in BrE.

Really? Okay. Now I know. Thanks!

Koldrig, my correction is for American English only.

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

No. Sorry. The 'for' was meant to be struck out in my post. I've edited it now.

I hadn't seen your post when I submitted mine.

Looks like Kolridg hasn't been hanging on our every word, anyhow.