German Phrase
Ich hab heute was vor.
Meaning
This phrase is a common colloquial way to express that you are busy or have something scheduled. It utilizes the separable verb 'vorhaben', which means 'to intend' or 'to plan'. The word 'was' is a frequent casual shortening of 'etwas', meaning 'something'.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to decline a social invitation or explain why you cannot meet up. It is best suited for informal settings like conversations with friends or colleagues.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ichhabheutewasvor
Hab (Habe)
In spoken German, the final 'e' in 'habe' is almost always dropped to sound more natural.
Separable Verb
The verb is 'vorhaben'. The 'hab' stays in the second position, while the prefix 'vor' goes to the end.
🗨In Conversation
Hast du Lust, heute Abend ins Kino zu gehen?
Do you feel like going to the cinema tonight?
Schade, aber ich hab heute schon was vor.
Too bad, but I already have plans today.
✕Common Mistakes
Ich habe heute was.
Without the prefix 'vor' at the end, the sentence is incomplete and just means 'I have something today'.
Ich vorhabe heute etwas.
In a main clause, the prefix 'vor' must move to the very end of the sentence.
↔Alternatives
Ich bin heute schon verplant.
I'm already booked up today.
Ich habe heute etwas vor.
I have plans today (more formal).
Cultural Tip
In German-speaking cultures, being direct about your availability is appreciated. You do not always need to provide a specific reason for being busy; stating that you have plans is considered a polite and sufficient boundary.