Italian Phrase
Non è disponibile.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to "He/She is not available." It's a common and polite way to indicate that someone cannot be reached or is occupied at a particular moment. It can refer to a person's time, presence, or ability to engage.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone asks to speak with or meet a person who is currently occupied, absent, or otherwise unable to attend. It's suitable for phone calls, office settings, or when explaining why someone can't participate in an activity.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nonèdisponibile
Non (negation)
In Italian, 'non' is placed directly before the verb to form a negative sentence, similar to 'not' in English.
È (verb 'essere')
'È' is the third-person singular form of the verb 'essere' (to be), meaning 'he/she/it is'. It's fundamental for describing states or conditions.
Disponibile (adjective)
'Disponibile' is an adjective meaning 'available'. It's invariable in gender (masculine/feminine) but changes for number (disponibili for plural).
🗨In Conversation
Posso parlare con la signora Rossi?
Can I speak with Mrs. Rossi?
Mi dispiace, ma la signora Rossi non è disponibile al momento.
I'm sorry, but Mrs. Rossi is not available at the moment.
✕Common Mistakes
Lui non è libero.
While "libero" means "free," it's less common for personal availability in this context. "Disponibile" or "occupato" are more natural for indicating someone is not available.
Non sono disponibile.
"Sono" is the first-person singular form of "essere" (I am). For "he/she is," use "è."
Non è disponibile per adesso.
While understandable, "al momento" (at the moment) or simply implying it from context is more idiomatic than "per adesso" when referring to temporary unavailability.
↔Alternatives
È occupato/a.
He/She is busy.
Non c'è.
He/She isn't here/around.
Al momento non può rispondere.
At the moment, he/she cannot answer.
È fuori ufficio.
He/She is out of the office.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, directness can vary. While "Non è disponibile" is polite, sometimes a brief explanation (e.g., "È in riunione," "È al telefono") might be offered, especially in professional settings, to soften the message. It's generally considered polite to offer to take a message or ask if the caller would like to call back later.