packed diary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "packed diary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a diary or schedule that is full of appointments, events, or activities. Example: "My week is so busy that I can barely find time to breathe; my packed diary is a testament to that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Despite his packed diary, today he is relaxed and happy to talk.

Independent

9.18pm GMT A packed diary for the US secretary of state.

The Guardian

Such an insatiable intellect must be as exhausting as his packed diary, and I ask how he relaxes.

The Guardian - Money

You look at your packed diary and wonder how the hell you're going to hit all these deadlines.

The Guardian

Can it be true that John Barrowman has enough space in his packed diary to return to his musical theatre roots?

The Guardian

The Holyrood cabinet have a packed diary for the two-day visit, including a visit by Mr Salmond and Education Secretary Mike Russell to the Gaelic college Sabhal Mor Ostaig.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

If you have one, pack your diary so you can record all the amazing things that happened on your trip.

WikiHow

And the question of how the prime minister chiselled out the time in the packed Number 10 diary to make a major speech on welfare has bemused old Downing Street hands.

The Guardian - Opinion

"When a client calls them in a crisis and says 'I need to see you today,' they will look at their already-packed diary and make time.

Vice

So, as many of us would after a difficult few days, Nige headed down to his local yesterday for a quiet Sunday afternoon pint, to forget about the stress and the elections, the over-packed diary and the immigrants, to unwind with his wife.

Vice

My diary was packed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "packed diary" when you want to emphasize that someone's schedule is not just busy, but completely full and possibly overwhelming.

Common error

While "packed diary" is a valid expression, avoid using it repeatedly in a short span. Vary your language by using synonyms like "busy schedule" or "full agenda" to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "packed diary" functions as a descriptor, characterizing the state of a diary (or schedule) as being completely full of appointments and activities. Ludwig shows how this phrase commonly emphasizes a lack of available time. As an adjective-noun combination, it provides a concise way to convey the intensity of someone's commitments.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "packed diary" effectively describes a very full schedule or agenda. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts. While not exceedingly common, it is understood and appropriate for general use, particularly in news and media. Consider alternatives like "busy schedule" or "full agenda" for variety. Use "packed diary" to emphasize a state of being fully booked and potentially overwhelmed by commitments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

jam-packed agenda

Emphasizes the crowded nature of the agenda, similar to "packed".

busy schedule

Replaces "packed" with a more general synonym, focusing on the state of being occupied.

fully booked schedule

A more explicit version of "completely booked", emphasizing the schedule.

completely booked

Highlights the lack of availability, indicating that all time slots are filled.

full agenda

Emphasizes the list of things to be done, rather than the diary itself.

tight schedule

Indicates that the schedule is inflexible and has little room for changes.

hectic schedule

Highlights the stressful and rushed nature of a busy schedule.

demanding schedule

Focuses on the high demands and requirements of the schedule.

overloaded schedule

Implies that the schedule has too many commitments, potentially causing stress or inefficiency.

wall-to-wall meetings

A more descriptive phrase, specifically referring to a schedule filled with meetings.

FAQs

What does "packed diary" mean?

A "packed diary" means that someone has a very full schedule with many appointments, meetings, or activities planned. It indicates a lack of free time.

How can I describe a "packed diary" differently?

You can use phrases like "busy schedule", "full agenda", or "tight schedule" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "packed diary" in formal writing?

While "packed diary" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "demanding schedule" or "fully booked schedule" might be preferable in professional contexts.

What is the difference between a "packed diary" and an "overloaded schedule"?

While both indicate a busy schedule, "overloaded schedule" suggests that there are too many commitments, potentially causing stress or inefficiency. A "packed diary" simply emphasizes the fullness of the schedule without necessarily implying it's overwhelming.