French Phrase
Il n'est pas disponible.
Meaning
This sentence means “He/She is not available.” It can refer to a person’s schedule, willingness, or ability to take part in something.
When to use
Use it when you need to tell someone that a person cannot attend a meeting, answer a call, or is otherwise occupied. It works in both professional and personal contexts, with the informal 'dispo' reserved for friends or casual settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Iln'estpasdisponible
Negation (ne...pas)
In spoken French, the 'ne' is often dropped, but in formal writing it is kept before the verb.
Verb être + adjective
The verb 'être' is used to link the subject with the adjective 'disponible' to describe a state.
Informal abbreviation 'dispo'
'Dispo' is a colloquial short form of 'disponible' used in casual conversation and texting.
🗨In Conversation
Est‑ce que Marie est libre cet après‑midi ?
Is Marie free this afternoon?
Non, elle n'est pas disponible, elle a un rendez‑vous.
No, she isn’t available; she has an appointment.
✕Common Mistakes
Pas disponible.
The verb 'être' is required; you cannot drop it.
Il est non disponible.
Use the negative construction 'n'est pas' rather than 'non'.
Il disponible pas.
In French the negation surrounds the verb, not the adjective.
↔Alternatives
Il n'est pas libre.
He/She is not free.
Il ne peut pas.
He/She can’t.
Il est occupé.
He/She is busy.
Il n'est pas dispo.
He/She isn’t available (very informal).
Cultural Tip
In formal emails or business settings, always use the full form 'disponible' and keep the 'ne' in the negation. 'Dispo' is acceptable in texts, chats, or when speaking with peers, but it can sound too casual in a professional context.