A1adjective1K

Busy

UK /["/ˈbɪzi/"]/US /["/ˈbɪzi/"]/

Definition

having a lot to do; perhaps not free to do something else because you are working on something

In simple words: Having a lot to do; not free.

Examples

  • I am busy with homework right now.
  • She is always busy on the weekends.
  • The street was busy with cars and people.
  • This restaurant is very busy during lunchtime.
  • He feels busy trying to keep up with his work.

Usage notes

Use 'busy' to describe someone or something that is occupied with tasks. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it to describe a person's character in a negative way.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a bee buzzing around, always busy at work.

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • with
  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • with

Synonyms

  • engaged

Antonyms

  • idle
  • free
  • leisurely

Common mistakes

  • 'Busy' is often confused with 'bustling' when talking about places.
  • Some learners use 'busy' to describe being in a bad mood.
  • Confusing 'busy' with 'busyness' as a noun.