things are busy

USAGE SUMMARY

"things are busy" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an atmosphere or situation in which there is a lot going on. For example: "The office was bustling with activity - things are really busy here lately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Things are busy.

The New Yorker

"Things are busy at the marina right now," he said.

The New York Times

It seemed "much like Lower Manhattan, where things are busy during the day but after a certain hour it becomes quieter," Mr. Bilginer said.

The New York Times

But when things are busy, Mr. Pryor said, he and his staff do not have the time or energy to explain.

The New York Times

Things are busy here so I can't talk long, but in the midst of all the commotion I found a way to open and enjoy a piece of home and that helped more than you can possibly know.

The New York Times

Things are busy at Ducky's, even more so since the store was mentioned in a recent article in The Seattle Post-Intelligencer, which in turn prompted a local television news report.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Things are busier a few blocks to the south on Redchurch Street.

The New York Times - Travel

Business was discussed only in broad strokes - things were busy or not busy, good or bad, fast or slow.

The New York Times - Magazine

With President Obama in town last Wednesday, things were busy for the New York Police Department's Harbor Unit.

The New York Times

Page A15 New York NEW YORK POLICE RELY ON UNDERWATER DRONES With President Obama in New York last Wednesday, things were busy for the New York Police Department's Harbor Unit.

The New York Times

What things I had I been quietly ignoring because things were busy?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "things are busy" in professional communication, follow it with an estimated timeframe for when you'll be able to respond or complete the task to manage expectations effectively.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "things are busy" without offering any additional information or a plan of action. This can come across as dismissive or unhelpful. Instead, briefly explain the reason for the busyness or suggest an alternative solution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things are busy" functions as a statement describing a situation characterized by a high level of activity or workload. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly used to indicate that there are many tasks or activities taking place.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

28%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things are busy" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a situation with a high level of activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and understood in English. Its versatility allows it to be used in various contexts, from informal conversations to professional communications, although it's important to provide context for clarity. While "things are busy" is a valuable phrase for indicating a busy environment, consider using related phrases like "matters are hectic" or "workload is demanding" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matters are hectic

Replaces "things" with "matters" and "busy" with "hectic", emphasizing a chaotic and rushed atmosphere.

the pace is frantic

Focuses on the speed and intensity of activity, suggesting a high-pressure environment.

activity is high

A more general and less emotive way to describe a busy situation.

we're swamped

An informal expression indicating being overwhelmed with work or tasks.

operations are bustling

Suitable for describing a business or organizational context where there's a lot of activity.

schedules are packed

Highlights the fullness of timetables and appointments.

all hands are on deck

An idiomatic expression meaning everyone is working hard to handle the workload.

we're running around like crazy

An informal expression used for stressing that everyone is running out of time and rushing to finish their assigned duties.

the workload is demanding

Stress on the workload and the high level of effort to be delivered.

there's a lot on our plate

An idiomatic expression used to highlight that you are dealing with many things at once.

FAQs

How can I use "things are busy" in a sentence?

You can use "things are busy" to explain a lack of availability, such as, "I apologize for the delayed response; "things are busy" at the office right now." Or to describe an event, for example: "Things are busier a few blocks to the south on Redchurch Street.

What's a more formal alternative to "things are busy"?

For a more formal setting, consider alternatives such as "operations are hectic" or "the workload is demanding". These options sound more professional while conveying the same general meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "things are busy" in an email to my boss?

Yes, it's generally acceptable, but frame it constructively. Instead of just saying ""things are busy"", provide context and a solution, like, "Things are busy with the Johnson project, but I'll be able to address your request by tomorrow morning."

What's the difference between "things are busy" and "I'm busy"?

"Things are busy" typically refers to a general state of activity or workload in a place or situation, whereas "I'm busy" refers specifically to your own state of being occupied. "Things are busy at the office" suggests a general environment, while "I'm busy" highlights your personal availability.