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German Phrase

Nee, ich bin den ganzen Tag verplant.

/neː ɪç bɪn deːn ˈɡantsn̩ taːk fɛɐ̯ˈplaːnt/
Meaning"No, I'm booked up all day."
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Meaning

This phrase is a colloquial way to express that your schedule is completely full and you have no spare time for additional activities. The word 'verplant' specifically suggests that every part of your day has already been assigned to a plan or task.

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When to use

Use this phrase in informal situations when declining an invitation or a request for a meeting. It is perfect for conversations with friends, family, or close colleagues where a casual tone is appropriate.

Grammar Breakdown

Neeich binden ganzen Tagverplant

1

Nee

A very common informal variation of 'nein' used in daily spoken German across most regions.

2

Accusative Time

The phrase 'den ganzen Tag' uses the accusative case because it describes a duration of time without a preposition.

3

Verplant

This is the past participle of 'verplanen'. In this context, it functions as an adjective describing a person whose time is fully allocated.

🗨In Conversation

A

Hast du heute Nachmittag Zeit für einen Kaffee?

Do you have time for a coffee this afternoon?

Nee, ich bin den ganzen Tag verplant.

No, I'm booked up all day.

B

Common Mistakes

  • Nee, ich bin der ganze Tag verplant.

    Expressions of time duration in German usually require the accusative case, so 'der' changes to 'den'.

  • Nee, ich habe den ganzen Tag verplant.

    Use 'bin' (to be) to describe your state of being busy; 'habe' would imply you planned the day for someone else.

Alternatives

  • Ich habe heute leider keine Zeit.

    Unfortunately, I don't have any time today.

  • Ich bin heute total dicht.

    I'm totally slammed today (very informal).

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Cultural Tip

In German-speaking cultures, being 'verplant' is a common and respected reason for declining an invitation. People often keep strict calendars, and saying you are booked up is seen as an honest assessment of your availability rather than a rude dismissal.