Been keeping busy Meaning in English

expression · lemma: keep busy

US

ˈbɪn/, /bən/, /bɪn/ /ˈkipɪŋ/ /ˈbɪzi

BIN KEE-ping BIZ-ee

UK

bˈiːn/ /kˈiːpɪŋ/ /bˈɪzi

BEEN KEE-ping BIZ-ee

Definition

This expression means someone has been actively doing things, working, or staying occupied, especially during a period when asked about their life.

Usage & Nuances

Informal and conversational; often used as a friendly response to 'How have you been?' Suggests having many activities, but not necessarily being overwhelmed. Can refer to work, hobbies, or chores.

• Spanish: he estado ocupado - me he mantenido ocupado
• Portuguese (BR): tenho estado ocupado - venho me mantendo ocupado
• Portuguese (PT): tenho andado ocupado - tenho-me mantido ocupado
• Chinese (Simplified): 一直很忙 - 保持忙碌
• Chinese (Traditional): 一直很忙 - 保持忙碌
• Hindi: व्यस्त रहा हूँ - व्यस्त रहा है
• Arabic: كنت مشغولاً - أبقيت نفسي مشغولاً
• Bengali: ব্যস্ত ছিলাম - কাজ নিয়ে ব্যস্ত থাকছি
• Russian: был(а) занят(а) - занимаюсь делами
• Japanese: 忙しくしていた
• Vietnamese: vẫn bận rộn - giữ mình bận rộn
• Korean: 바쁘게 지냈어 - 계속 바빴어
• Turkish: meşguldüm - uğraşıyordum
• Urdu: مصروف رہا ہوں - خود کو مصروف رکھا ہوا ہے
• Indonesian: tetap sibuk - menyibukkan diri

Example Sentences

I've been keeping busy with work lately.

basic

She has been keeping busy by learning new recipes.

basic

Have you been keeping busy during the holidays?

basic

I’ve been keeping busy with some home projects since the new year.

natural

Yeah, I’ve been keeping busy—it helps me stay positive.

natural

You know me, I’ve been keeping busy as always.

natural