German Phrase
Ja, ich hab' schon was vor.
Meaning
The speaker confirms that they already have plans or something scheduled, so they cannot do something else. It’s a casual way to say “Yes, I already have something planned.”
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to politely decline an invitation or explain that your time is already booked. It works well in informal conversations with friends, family, or colleagues.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jaichhabschonwasvor
Ja (Yes)
Used to affirm or agree, often placed at the beginning of a sentence.
ich hab' (ich habe)
Colloquial contraction of 'ich habe' meaning 'I have'.
schon
Means 'already' and can also convey 'by now' in this context.
was
Colloquial short for 'etwas' meaning 'something' or 'something to do'.
vorhaben
Separable verb 'vorhaben' means 'to have planned' or 'to intend'. In the present tense, the prefix 'vor' moves to the end of the clause.
🗨In Conversation
Möchtest du heute Abend ins Kino gehen?
Do you want to go to the movies tonight?
Ja, ich hab' schon was vor.
Yes, I already have something planned.
✕Common Mistakes
Ja, ich hab schon was vor.
In formal writing you should use the full verb 'habe'.
Ja, ich hab schon was vor.
Avoid using 'was' in very formal contexts; replace with 'etwas'.
Ja, ich hab' schon vor was.
Do not place the prefix 'vor' before the verb in the main clause; it must go to the end.
↔Alternatives
Ja, ich habe schon etwas vor.
Yes, I already have something planned.
Leider bin ich schon verabredet.
Unfortunately I'm already made an appointment.
Ich habe bereits etwas vor.
I already have something scheduled.
Cultural Tip
In German, using the separable verb 'vorhaben' is very common for talking about plans. The informal contraction 'hab'' (instead of 'habe') signals a relaxed, friendly tone. When speaking with strangers or in formal settings, stick to the full form 'ich habe' to avoid sounding too casual.