Definition

Interjection: * A casual, informal expression used to say goodbye when parting from someone.

Usage

• "So long" is used as a standalone farewell phrase. It is friendly and informal, often implying you expect to see the person again, though not necessarily soon.
• It is less common in modern, everyday speech than "goodbye," "bye," or "see you later," and can sometimes sound slightly dated or regional.

Examples

• "It was great catching up. So long!"
• He waved from the door and said, "So long, everyone!"
• "So long for now. Take care of yourself."

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can carry a tone of warm finality, especially in written correspondence or when parting for an indefinite period.
  • In his letter, he wrote, "So long, and thanks for all the memories."

Variants and Related Words

• Goodbye (n, interj): The standard, more formal term for farewell.
• Farewell (n, interj): A more formal or old-fashioned word for goodbye, often used for more permanent partings.

Synonyms

• Goodbye
• Bye
• Farewell
• See you later
• Cheerio (chiefly British)

Notes on Different Meanings

• The phrase "so long" is only an interjection (farewell remark) in this specific, fixed expression. It should not be confused with the separate adverbial phrase "so long" meaning "for such a long time" (e.g., "I waited for so long").

Noun

1. a farewell remark
   • they said their good-byes