‘久别’ literally combines ‘久’ (jiǔ), meaning ‘long’ or ‘for a long time,’ and ‘别’ (bié), meaning ‘to part’ or ‘separation.’ Together, it forms a noun meaning ‘long separation’—typically referring to an extended period apart from someone with whom one shares close personal ties, such as family members, friends, or romantic partners. It carries emotional weight, often implying nostalgia, longing, or bittersweet reunion.

The term is commonly used in literary, formal, or heartfelt contexts—not in casual daily speech—and frequently appears in phrases like ‘久别重逢’ (jiǔ bié chóng féng, ‘reunion after a long separation’) or in written expressions of sentiment. While not inherently time-specific, ‘久别’ suggests separation lasting months or years, not days or weeks. It’s rarely used for impersonal or temporary absences, and never for objects or non-human subjects.