German Phrase
Ja, ich habe am Sonntag etwas vor.
Meaning
This phrase uses the separable verb 'vorhaben', which translates to 'to plan' or 'to intend'. It is the standard way to express that you have a prior commitment or a scheduled activity. The word 'etwas' (something) makes the statement slightly vague but polite.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone asks about your availability on Sunday or invites you to an event and you want to confirm you are busy. It works well in both professional and social contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ja,ichhabeam Sonntagetwasvor.
Separable Verb: vorhaben
The verb is 'vorhaben'. In a simple sentence, the main part 'habe' is conjugated in position 2, and the prefix 'vor' is placed at the very end.
Temporal Preposition: am
'Am' is a contraction of 'an dem' and is used for specific days of the week and times of day (except night).
🗨In Conversation
Hast du am Sonntag Zeit für einen Ausflug?
Do you have time for a trip on Sunday?
Ja, ich habe am Sonntag etwas vor.
Yes, I have plans on Sunday.
✕Common Mistakes
Ja, ich habe Pläne am Sonntag.
While 'Pläne' means plans, Germans typically use the verb 'vorhaben' to describe having something on their schedule.
Ja, ich vorhabe etwas am Sonntag.
Remember that 'vorhaben' is a separable verb; the prefix 'vor' must go to the end of the sentence.
↔Alternatives
Ich bin am Sonntag schon verplant.
I'm already booked up on Sunday.
Da habe ich leider schon was vor.
I already have something planned then, unfortunately.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, Sunday is legally a 'Ruhetag' (day of rest), meaning shops are closed and loud chores are discouraged. When someone says they have plans on Sunday, it often involves family visits, 'Kaffee und Kuchen', or a long walk (Spaziergang).