in the absence of somebody
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: in the absence of something
Meaning · English
Common English phrase; full definition pending editorial review.
Register: neutral
Sources & notes
Everyday learner phrase (CEFR C1); level cross-referenced from published learner lists. Definition pending editorial review.
Common questions
What does “in the absence of somebody” mean?
Common English phrase; full definition pending editorial review.
Is “in the absence of somebody” formal or informal?
in the absence of somebody is generally neutral.