Japanese - Time Expressions

急いでいます

Isoide imasu.

I’m in a hurry.

Meaning: I’m in a hurry.

When to use: Use to explain you're rushing (polite). Good for telling friends or coworkers you need to move quickly without sounding rude.

Tip: Don't use this as a demand; avoid saying it brusquely — add すみません if needed.

時間があります。

Jikan ga arimasu.

I have time.

Meaning: I have time.

When to use: Say this when you are available or not in a rush. Use it to accept offers or to show you're free to chat.

時間がありません。

Jikan ga arimasen.

I don’t have time.

Meaning: I don’t have time.

When to use: Use this politely to decline invitations or explain you cannot help now. It signals you are occupied.

Tip: Beginners sometimes say '時間がないです' — it's understood but use 'ありません' for polite speech.

間に合いますか。

Maniaimasu ka.

Will we make it in time?

Meaning: Will we make it in time?

When to use: Ask this when you're unsure about arrival times for trains, appointments, or events.

遅れます

Okuremasu.

I’ll be late.

Meaning: I’ll be late.

When to use: Use in messages or calls to let someone know you cannot arrive on time (polite).

少し遅れます

Sukoshi okuremasu.

I’ll be a little late.

Meaning: I’ll be a little late.

When to use: Say this in a short message or call; it softens the lateness and is polite when prefixed with すみません.

Tip: Beginners sometimes drop すみません and sound abrupt — include it for extra politeness.