Be miles away

usgb
phrase

To be lost in thought, not paying attention to what is happening around you.

When I asked John a question, he didn't answer. He seemed to be miles away.
Visual representation of "be miles away" - To be lost in thought, not paying attention to what is happening around you

Often appears as...

  • seem to be miles away
  • look like he/she is miles away

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be miles away"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Not Literal Distance

The phrase doesn't refer to actual physical distance, but to being distracted or not present mentally.

Illustration for Not Literal Distance
During the lecture, Sally was miles away, thinking about her vacation.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Usage

It's a casual expression, used more in spoken language or informal writing.

Illustration for Informal Usage
Sorry, I was miles away. What did you just say?
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conversation Context

Used when someone doesn't respond in a conversation, indicating they're not paying attention.

Illustration for Conversation Context
You've been quiet, you seem miles away. Everything okay?
Visual representation of the word "Be miles away"

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