Absence: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to the state of being away or not present at a specific place or situation, often used in formal or general contexts.

• Her absence was noticed during the meeting.
• The absence of sunlight made the room feel gloomy.

A formal term used particularly in the context of events, meetings, or educational settings to describe someone not attending.

• Students' nonattendance must be reported by their teachers.
• Nonattendance at the workshop will result in a loss of credit.

Used when something is not in its expected place or when a person is not accounted for, typically in everyday situations.

• One of the puzzle pieces is missing.
• Our cat has been missing for two days.

Indicates a situation where something necessary or desired is not available or insufficient, often used to describe deficiencies.

• There's a lack of evidence to support his claims.
• The project failed due to a lack of funding.

General term to describe the state of being away or not present.

• His absence was noted by everyone at the meeting.
• The absence of rain created a drought.

Specifically refers to the act of staying away from school without permission; has a negative connotation.

• Truancy can lead to serious academic consequences for students.
• The school has a strict policy for dealing with truancy.

Formal way to describe someone not attending a scheduled event or place.

• The judge issued a warrant due to the defendant's nonappearance in court.
• Her nonappearance at the party was unexpected.

Used regarding failure to meet obligations, especially financial or legal ones; can have a negative connotation.

• The bank will take possession of the house if you default on your mortgage.
• The team lost the match by default when they didn’t show up.

Use this word when something or someone is not present where they are expected to be. It's a neutral term.

• Her absence from the meeting was noted
• The absence of evidence makes it hard to proceed

A formal term often used in academic or professional settings, indicating someone's failure to attend an event or obligation.

• Nonattendance at lectures affects grades
• His nonattendance at the board meeting was noted

A more formal term used primarily in legal or official contexts, indicating someone's failure to appear where expected.

• The nonappearance of the witness delayed the trial
• The contract was voided due to nonappearance of the signer

This term often conveys a sense of concern or urgency, implying that something or someone should be there but is not.

• The child was reported missing
• There is a missing document in the file