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German Phrase

Ich bin total ausgebucht.

/ɪç bɪn toˈtaːl ˈaʊ̯sɡəˌbuːxt/
Meaning"I am completely booked up."
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Meaning

This phrase is used to indicate that your schedule is entirely full and you have no more room for appointments or tasks. While 'ausgebucht' can refer to a hotel or flight being fully booked, using it for yourself emphasizes that your time is a limited resource that has been fully allocated.

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When to use

Use this in a professional context or when talking about your social calendar to politely decline a request or invitation. It sounds more definitive and slightly more formal than simply saying you are busy.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ichbintotalausgebucht

1

Sein (bin)

The verb 'sein' is used here in the first person singular to describe a current state of being.

2

Ausgebucht

This is a past participle used as an adjective. It comes from the verb 'ausbuchen', which literally means to book out or sell out.

🗨In Conversation

A

Hast du morgen Zeit für einen Kaffee?

Do you have time for a coffee tomorrow?

Leider nicht, ich bin total ausgebucht.

Unfortunately not, I am completely booked up.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich bin total gebucht.

    'Gebucht' means 'booked' (like a flight), but for a full schedule, 'ausgebucht' is the correct term.

  • Ich habe total ausgebucht.

    This expression describes a state, so use the auxiliary verb 'sein' (bin) instead of 'haben'.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich habe viel zu tun.

    I have a lot to do.

  • Mein Terminkalender ist voll.

    My appointment calendar is full.

  • Ich bin vollauf beschäftigt.

    I am fully occupied.

de

Cultural Tip

In German culture, being 'ausgebucht' is often a sign of productivity and reliability. When using this phrase to decline a meeting, it is common practice to suggest a specific alternative date in the future to show that you are still interested in the engagement.