German Phrase
Patricia ist gerade nicht erreichbar.
Meaning
The sentence tells the listener that Patricia cannot be contacted at this very moment – whether by phone, e‑mail, or any other means. It emphasizes the temporary nature of the unavailability.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to inform a colleague, friend, or client that a specific person is currently unavailable, for example when you receive a call for them or when you are arranging a meeting.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Patriciaistgeradenichterreichbar
sein (ist)
The verb 'sein' is used as a linking verb to connect the subject with a predicative adjective; here it is conjugated in the 3rd person singular present.
gerade
An adverb meaning 'right now' or 'at the moment', placed before the negation to stress immediacy.
nicht
Negates the predicate; placed directly before the adjective 'erreichbar' to indicate the opposite state.
erreichbar
A predicative adjective meaning 'reachable/available'. It is used with 'sein' to describe a person's current availability.
🗨In Conversation
Kann ich Patricia erreichen?
Can I reach Patricia?
Patricia ist gerade nicht erreichbar.
Patricia is currently not reachable.
✕Common Mistakes
Patricia hat gerade nicht erreichbar.
The verb 'haben' cannot be used here; you need the linking verb 'sein'.
Patricia ist nicht gerade erreichbar.
Placing 'nicht' before 'gerade' changes the meaning to 'Patricia is not exactly reachable', which is unnatural.
Patricia ist gerade nicht erreichbar?
In a statement the question mark is unnecessary; use a period unless you are actually asking.
↔Alternatives
Patricia ist im Moment nicht erreichbar.
Patricia is not reachable at the moment.
Patricia kann gerade nicht erreicht werden.
Patricia cannot be reached right now.
Patricia ist zurzeit nicht erreichbar.
Patricia is unavailable for the time being.
Cultural Tip
In German professional settings it is common to give a brief status of availability. Adding 'gerade' signals that the situation is temporary, which is polite because it leaves room for a later follow‑up. Avoid overly informal phrasing (e.g., 'Patricia ist nicht da') in business emails; stick to the more neutral 'nicht erreichbar'.