How to Say ‘I’m Busy’ in Japanese: Expressing a Hectic Schedule

To express that you’re busy in Japanese, you can use the phrase 「忙しいです」(isogashii desu), which means “I’m busy.” However, there are several other ways to convey a hectic schedule and being occupied. Here are some options:

1. **忙しいです。** (Isogashii desu.)

   Translation: “I’m busy.”

   This is the straightforward and commonly used expression to convey that you have a lot to do.

2. **時間がありません。** (Jikan ga arimasen.)

   Translation: “I don’t have time.”

   This phrase directly communicates that your schedule is full and you lack free time.

3. **多忙です。** (Tabou desu.)

   Translation: “I’m very busy.”

   This term emphasizes the high level of busyness you’re experiencing.

4. **手一杯です。** (Teippai desu.)

   Translation: “I’m full (of tasks/responsibilities).”

   This expression suggests that you are fully occupied and have no additional capacity.

5. **やることが山積みです。** (Yaru koto ga yamazumi desu.)

   Translation: “Tasks are piling up.”

   This phrase conveys the accumulation of tasks and responsibilities.

6. **バタバタしています。** (Bata-bata shiteimasu.)

   Translation: “I’m in a hustle and bustle.”

   This expression describes a state of frenzied activity.

7. **仕事が忙しいです。** (Shigoto ga isogashii desu.)

   Translation: “Work is busy.”

   This phrase specifies that your work is keeping you busy.

8. **スケジュールが詰まっています。** (Sukejuuru ga tsumatteimasu.)

   Translation: “My schedule is packed.”

   This expression conveys that your schedule is full with various tasks and commitments.

9. **余裕がありません。** (Yoyuu ga arimasen.)

   Translation: “I don’t have room/breathing space.”

   This phrase suggests that you’re tightly scheduled without any room for additional activities.

10. **手が離せません。** (Te ga hanasemasen.)

    Translation: “I can’t let go of my tasks.”

    This expression conveys that you’re occupied and unable to free up your hands from your responsibilities.

Remember to adjust the level of formality and politeness based on your relationship with the person you’re speaking to. These phrases will help you effectively convey your busy schedule and lack of free time in Japanese.

My Recommendations for your Japanese learning

  • Japanese Pod 101 My Honest Review Read more
  • JLPT N5 Test Prep-course - The Expert Secret Check Out

Krisada Hemsoe

I'm Krisada, the creator of JLPT TUTOR. I created this site to share the path of my Japanese learning That I achieved my JLPT N1. You may struggle with Kanji , Grammar , Listening, reading and fail again and again. I know how you feel when you see "Not Pass" I want to share what I learnt in this past through this website. Hope you enjoy

Recent Posts