very busy

USAGE SUMMARY

"very busy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a person who is overwhelmed with activities or a situation that has a lot going on. For example: John has been very busy lately, juggling his career and his family responsibilities.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We've been very busy".

The New York Times

She's just very busy".

The New Yorker

A very busy guy.

The New York Times

"She's very busy".

Independent

A We're very busy.

The New York Times

Or just very busy?

Harvard Business Review

Everyone is very busy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"They're very busy.

The New York Times - Arts

We're very busy.

The New York Times

Cameron: I'm very busy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

They are very busy".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Using "very busy" is appropriate in a wide range of contexts, from casual conversation to professional correspondence. However, in formal or academic writing, consider more precise language.

Common error

Avoid using "very busy" repeatedly as a default explanation for missed deadlines or unfulfilled promises. Provide specific reasons or demonstrate accountability instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very busy" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It is used to describe a state of being occupied with activity. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "very busy" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone or something that is highly active or occupied. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a versatile phrase, suitable for a range of contexts. While versatile, it's important to use it thoughtfully and consider more descriptive alternatives like "extremely occupied" or "swamped with work" when greater precision is needed. Overusing "very busy" as an excuse should be avoided in professional settings to maintain accountability. Its prevalence across various sources, including news, science, and general media, underscores its widespread acceptance and utility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Occupied

This is a simpler and more direct way of stating that someone is not available.

Extremely occupied

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the state of being engaged.

Pressed for time

Highlights the scarcity of time due to numerous commitments.

Heavily involved

This implies participation in numerous activities or projects.

Hard at work

Focuses on the diligence and effort being put into tasks.

Swamped with work

This suggests being overwhelmed by a large amount of work.

Always on the go

Implies a constant state of activity and movement.

Up to one's ears

This idiom suggests being deeply immersed in something.

Running around

This suggests a frantic level of activity and movement.

Fully booked

This is more often used to describe schedules and appointments.

FAQs

How can I use "very busy" in a sentence?

You can use "very busy" to describe a person, place, or time that is full of activity. For example, "She is "very busy" with work and family" or "The city center is "very busy" during the holidays."

What are some alternatives to saying "very busy"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "extremely occupied", "swamped with work", or "pressed for time".

Is it better to say "very busy" or "extremely busy"?

Both phrases are correct, but "extremely busy" might convey a slightly stronger sense of being occupied than "very busy". The choice depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you want to express.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "very busy"?

It might be inappropriate to use "very busy" if you are trying to explain away a mistake or lack of responsibility. In such cases, it's better to offer a specific explanation or apology instead of simply stating that you were "very busy".