French Phrase
Non, je suis pris toute la journée.
Meaning
This phrase is a direct and idiomatic way to express that your schedule is completely full. The word 'pris' literally means 'taken,' indicating that your time has already been committed to other tasks or appointments. It is a very common way to decline invitations or meetings in French.
When to use
Use this phrase in both professional and social contexts when someone asks for your availability. It is a polite but firm way to say you cannot fit anything else into your schedule for the entire day.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Non,jesuispristoutelajournée
Être pris
This construction uses the auxiliary verb 'être' (to be) with the past participle of 'prendre' (to take). In this context, it functions as an adjective meaning 'occupied'.
Journée vs Jour
Use 'journée' to emphasize the duration or the activities happening within the day. 'Jour' is typically used for counting or specific dates.
🗨In Conversation
Tu es libre pour prendre un café cet après-midi ?
Are you free to grab a coffee this afternoon?
Non, je suis pris toute la journée.
No, I am busy all day.
✕Common Mistakes
Non, je suis pris tout le jour.
Use 'toute la journée' when referring to the duration or the span of the day.
Non, je suis prendre toute la journée.
Use the past participle 'pris' after the verb 'être' to describe your state of being busy.
↔Alternatives
Je ne suis pas disponible aujourd'hui.
I am not available today.
Je suis débordé.
I am swamped/overwhelmed.
C'est complet pour moi aujourd'hui.
It is full for me today (referring to schedule).
Cultural Tip
In France, it is common to use 'pris' to decline an invitation without necessarily explaining exactly what you are doing. While it is direct, it isn't considered rude. Adding 'Désolé' (Sorry) at the beginning is a nice touch if you are speaking with friends or close colleagues.