I'm busy Meaning in English

expression · lemma: be busy

US

ˈaɪm/, /əm/ /ˈbɪzi

AIM BIZ-ee or um BIZ-ee

UK

aɪm/ /bˈɪzi

AIM BIZ-ee

Definition

A common expression meaning you do not have free time because you have things to do.

Usage & Nuances

Very commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. Often used as a polite way to decline invitations or requests. Typically said as 'Sorry, I'm busy' or 'I'm busy right now.' It can sound abrupt if used alone without explanation.

• Spanish: estoy ocupado - estoy ocupada
• Portuguese (BR): estou ocupado - estou ocupada
• Portuguese (PT): estou ocupado - estou ocupada
• Chinese (Simplified): 我很忙
• Chinese (Traditional): 我很忙
• Hindi: मैं व्यस्त हूँ
• Arabic: أنا مشغول
• Bengali: আমি ব্যস্ত
• Russian: я занят - я занята
• Japanese: 忙しい
• Vietnamese: tôi bận
• Korean: 나 바빠 - 저 바쁩니다
• Turkish: meşgulüm
• Urdu: میں مصروف ہوں
• Indonesian: saya sedang sibuk

Example Sentences

I'm busy, can we talk later?

basic

Sorry, I'm busy right now.

basic

I'm busy with homework.

basic

Can’t talk now—I'm busy finishing something.

natural

Thanks for asking, but I'm busy all weekend.

natural

I'd love to help, but I'm busy at the moment.

natural