Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Yonks

What does it mean?

Yonks is a classic British slang word meaning a very long time. If you haven't seen a friend in years, you might say, "I haven't seen you in yonks!" It’s informal, friendly, and used by Brits of all ages to emphasize a long duration. It’s much more common than saying "ages" or "eons" in casual speech.

Is it positive or negative?

Neutral.

When do you use it?

Commonly used in casual conversation to emphasise that something has lasted or hasn't happened for a long time.

Examples

Example 1: I haven't been to that local pub in yonks, we should go tonight!

Example 2: It took me yonks to get home yesterday because of the roadworks.

Question for you

What’s something you haven’t done in yonks that you’d love to do again?

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