way back when
Meaning(s)
1. a long time ago, something that happened in the distant past
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
way back when I was in school/a child
Analysis
'Way back' means 'long ago'. 'Way back when' refers to a long time ago in the distant past. This is an informal expression you are more likely to hear used in spoken English or in storytelling.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I used to play a lot of football, but that was way back when I was in high school. That's over 20 years ago now!
- Way back when I was in University, I ate pasta and beans every day. Now that I have more money, I have a much better diet.
- Way back when my daughter was born, I had to study after she went to sleep. She's seven years old now, but I still prefer to work at night.