do not disturb me

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not disturb me" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to request privacy or indicate that you do not want to be interrupted. Example: "I am working on an important project right now, so please do not disturb me until I finish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

As a reminder she tacked up a note on the door: "Please do not disturb me.

The New Yorker

Though we live in a time in which we are starting to fear genetic surveillance, her portraits do not disturb me.

The New York Times

He left a note on his door that read, "Do not disturb me, I wish to sleep for a long time".

The New Yorker

To one who was irked by the cries of newsboys, Gaynor wrote, "A whole lot of people have been hollering at me of late, but they do not disturb me, and much less does the hollering of the little newsboys disturb me".

The New York Times

If you see a haggard old man, weeping alone in his headphones, do not disturb me.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

You don't disturb me.

Independent

"Don't disturb me," David had said.

The Guardian - Books

"How will you cater?" "Man, don't disturb me!" Mr. Lahai said.

The New York Times

"I think the Kindle sends the imperative 'I'm busy, please don't disturb me' message when you are traveling on a plane or eating in a restaurant or relaxing at a resort," she said, adding that the last book she read on her Kindle was "Sex at Dawn: The Prehistoric Origins of Modern Sexuality".

The New York Times

"I can go to Alan Cranston's office, always an hour-and-a-half meeting, closed door--'Don't bother me, don't disturb me, I'm talking to Dori,' " Pye said.

Los Angeles Times

When they brought the bed net I can sleep in it and the mosquitoes and other insects don't disturb me.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "do not disturb me", consider the context and your relationship with the person you're addressing. In professional settings, it may be more appropriate to use a softer phrasing, like "I need to concentrate for a while".

Common error

Avoid using "do not disturb me" too frequently in casual settings, as it can come across as overly formal or even rude. Instead, try softer alternatives like "I'm a bit busy right now" or "Can we talk later?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not disturb me" functions as an imperative, directly instructing someone to refrain from interrupting or bothering the speaker. It conveys a clear request for privacy and uninterrupted time.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "do not disturb me" is a grammatically correct imperative phrase used to request privacy and prevent interruptions. According to Ludwig AI, it is considered usable in written English, although the level of formality can vary depending on the context. While acceptable in both informal and neutral settings, softer alternatives might be preferable in formal conversations or professional environments. The phrase is more commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, with its frequency classified as uncommon. Remember to consider the tone and audience when using this phrase, and explore alternatives for greater nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do not interrupt me

Focuses specifically on preventing interruptions, suitable when concentration is key.

do not bother me

Similar to "do not disturb me", but can sometimes be perceived as harsher.

please leave me alone

More direct and can sometimes sound rude depending on context.

please give me privacy

A polite request for privacy, suitable in more formal settings.

I need some space

Less direct, suggesting a need for personal space without explicitly prohibiting interaction.

I'd rather be alone

Indicates a preference for solitude, less of a direct command.

I'm busy right now

Indicates current unavailability without a direct command to avoid disturbance.

I'm not available at the moment

More formal way of indicating unavailability and discouraging interaction.

can I have a moment

A request for a brief period of solitude, implying a later return to interaction.

I'm incommunicado

A more dramatic and less common way of stating unavailability, often implying a complete disconnection.

FAQs

How can I politely ask someone not to bother me?

Instead of a direct command, you could say, "I need some time to focus" or "I'm in the middle of something". These options are less direct and can be perceived as more considerate.

What are some formal alternatives to "do not disturb me"?

In a formal setting, consider using phrases like "please do not interrupt" or "I would appreciate undisturbed time". These are suitable for professional emails or notices.

Is it rude to use "do not disturb me"?

The appropriateness of using "do not disturb me" depends on the context and your relationship with the person. It can be perceived as blunt, so consider using softer alternatives like "I need some space" or explaining why you need to focus.

When is it appropriate to use "do not disturb me"?

It's suitable when you need uninterrupted time to concentrate, such as when working on a project, studying, or attending an important meeting. Using a "do not disturb" sign can also be helpful in these situations.