Italian Phrase
Sì, ho già dei piani.
Meaning
The speaker confirms that they already have plans, usually in response to an invitation or a suggestion. It conveys a polite but firm indication that they are not free.
When to use
Use this sentence when someone asks you to join an activity, meet up, or do something and you want to let them know you are already committed elsewhere.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sìhogiàdeipiani
Sì (affirmation)
Used as a standalone affirmative answer, equivalent to 'yes' in English.
ho (avere, 1st person singular)
Present indicative of the verb 'avere' meaning 'to have'.
già (adverb)
Means 'already' and is placed before the noun phrase it modifies.
dei (partitive article)
The plural partitive article meaning 'some', used before a plural countable noun.
piani (noun, plural)
Plural of 'piano' meaning 'plan' or 'arrangement'.
🗨In Conversation
Vuoi venire al cinema stasera?
Do you want to go to the movies tonight?
Sì, ho già dei piani.
Yes, I already have plans.
✕Common Mistakes
Sì, ho già di piani.
The partitive article before a plural noun is 'dei', not the preposition 'di'.
Sì, già ho dei piani.
The adverb 'già' normally comes before the noun phrase, not directly after the verb.
↔Alternatives
Sì, ho già dei programmi.
Yes, I already have programs/plans.
Sì, ho già degli impegni.
Yes, I already have commitments.
Sì, ho già qualcosa in programma.
Yes, I already have something scheduled.
Cultural Tip
In Italian conversation, saying you have "piani" is a neutral way to decline without sounding rude. "Impegni" sounds a bit more formal, while "programmi" is common among younger speakers. Italians often appreciate a brief explanation rather than a flat "no".