Idiom
yonks
Meanings
A very long time (especially the time since something last happened or was seen).
A long time ago; ages ago.
Definition
A very long time, especially from a time in the past until now.
"Yonks" is an informal British word meaning a very long time. It is often used with "for" or "in" to say something hasn’t happened, or hasn’t been seen, in a long time. It can also mean ages ago. It is mainly used in casual speech and writing.
Examples
- I haven’t seen her in yonks.
- We haven’t been to the seaside for yonks.
- It took yonks to get through the airport today.
- I last played tennis yonks ago.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use "yonks" in formal writing, but it is very informal and mostly used in casual British English.
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.