Can’t hang out because you’re too busy? Not so fast. Try these snappy replies instead.
How many times has this happened to you: you ask a friend (or partner, or crush) to make plans, and they hit you with the old “Sorry, I’m just sooo busy right now” line. 🙄 We get it – life moves fast. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make a little time for fun or friendship!
That’s why we’ve put together over 30 witty, funny, and savage comebacks for the next time someone tries to use “being busy” as an excuse to flake out on you. Keep reading for great responses like “So is the President but I’m sure he could squeeze me in”, “Well I can come over and help you get un-busy”, and more. Consider this your official Busy Begone toolkit!
When Someone Says They’re Too Busy, Try These 30 Comebacks
Before we dive into the clap backs, here are my top few faves to give you a taste:
“Let me check my schedule real quick… nope, still have you penciled in for fun times.”
“So is the President but I’m sure he could squeeze me in.”
“The only thing I’m too busy for is your lame excuses.”
And if those didn’t convince you to keep reading, I don’t know what will! Keep scrolling for 27 more, separated by theme so you can always pick the perfect reply, whether you wanna go the funny, flirty, or savage route.
Funny Busy Comebacks
We all need more laughter in our lives! Here are 10 hilarous responses for when someone’s too “busy” to hang.
- “Well I can come over and help you get un-busy.”
- “Unless you plan on being the first person to colonize Mars soon, I think you can make some time.”
- “Let me check my schedule real quick… nope, still have you penciled in for fun times.”
- “Blink twice if you’re being held captive and need help.”
- “So is the President but I’m sure he could squeeze me in.”
- “The only thing I’m too busy for is your lame excuses.”
- “If you were a booger I’d pick you first.”
- “I’ve been too busy waiting around for you to make time for me.”
- “Well cancel your other plans because I’ll be more fun.”
- “That’s cool. I’ve got time to kill while you pretend you actually have stuff to do.”
Savage Busy Comebacks
If they’re gonna be rude, might as well throw some shade right back! These 10 snappy comebacks are just savage enough to make your point.
- “I don’t remember asking if you were busy. I asked if you were free.”
- “Being on social media for 4 hours doesn’t count as being busy.”
- “Too busy for me and yet somehow not too busy for [insert their hobby or whatever they spend time on]?”
- “Let me know when you finish all that nothing you’re supposedly doing.”
- “Oh I didn’t realize your personal assistant was managing your packed calendar these days.”
- “Sorry, I don’t actually buy that you’re busy 24/7.”
- “If by busy you mean ghosting me, then sure, makes total sense.”
- “Last I checked, you aren’t Beyonce. Chill with acting way too busy for li’l ol’ me.”
- “I get that counting sheep takes dedication, but it shouldn’t take up THAT much time.”
- “Clearly you’ve confused your bed for a day planner if you actually think you’re that busy.”
Flirty Busy Comebacks
Why not turn their “busy-ness” into a playful opportunity to get their attention? Give these 10 flirty responses a shot!
- “Too busy for lil ol’ me? I might just have to punish you for that later.” 😏
- “Well I’m sure I could help distract you from all that busyness…”
- “If I was there we could be busy together, if you know what I mean.” 😉
- “Let’s pretend you said yes to a hot date instead.”
- “Hmm well I was thinking we could get busy together but okay, work comes first I guess…”
- “Hah if you were my boyfriend/girlfriend I simply wouldn’t allow you to be too busy for me.”
- “I promise cuddles are the best cure for being overly busy!”
- “We really need to make us a priority over all that busywork, don’t ya think?”
- “Being busy is no excuse not to make time for cute faces like mine.” 🥰
- “If I was your personal assistant we could get busy in more ways than one.” 😋
10 Editor’s Choice Busy Comebacks
Out of all the snappy retorts, our editors just couldn’t stop laughing at these all-star responses. Enjoy the best of the best!
1. “Blink twice if you’re being held captive and need help.”
Where to use: When someone constantly claims to be too busy to hang out
Where NOT to use: If the person actually seems stressed out or overwhelmed
2. “Let’s pretend you said yes to a hot date instead.” 😍
Where to use: When you’re ready to take your friendship/relationship to the next level
Where NOT to use: If you think the person will react poorly or doesn’t feel the same way
3. “Unless you plan on being the first person to colonize Mars soon, I think you can make some time.” 🚀
Where to use: For super ambitious friends who overcommit
Where NOT to use: If the person struggles with feeling inadequate
4. “Sorry I don’t actually buy that you’re busy 24/7.”
Where to use: On chronically flaky pals
Where NOT to use: If the person shared vulnerable info about life stressors
5. “Too busy for me and yet somehow not too busy for [insert hobby]?” 🤨
Where to use: When said hobby takes up most of their free time
Where NOT to use: For sensitive topics like work, family demands, health issues
6. “I promise cuddles are the best cure for being overly busy!” 🤗
Where to use: With a new crush/partner
Where NOT to use: If you think romance is unwanted
7. “If you were a booger I’d pick you first.” 👃
Where to use: To make overly serious people laugh
Where NOT to use: With people who dislike crass/silly humor
8. “Being on social media for 4 hours doesn’t count as being busy.” 📱
Where to use: For distraction-prone pals
Where NOT to use: If it could trigger self-esteem issues
9. “Well cancel your other plans because I’ll be more fun.” 🥳
Where to use: When you wanna assert yourself as the superior option
Where NOT to use: If it seems pushy rather than playful
10. “If by busy you mean ghosting me, then sure, makes total sense.” 👻
Where to use: When someone frequently flakes then resurfaces
Where NOT to use: With sensitive people or for ghosting you regret
How to Reply to Girls Who Say They’re Too Busy
So we’ve covered some solid comeback material. But what about tailoring your response based on who it’s coming from? Let’s go through the best replies for when a girl says she’s too busy to hang out with you.
If She’s Your Crush
Got a crush who’s suddenly too busy to accept your date invites? Mix understanding with humor and flirtation. Responses like “No worries, I know you’re juggling a lot. Raincheck for when your schedule clears up? I’ll bring the snacks” show you care while still being playful.
You can also say “Aw I was really looking forward to seeing your cute face, but I know work stuff can get crazy. Next time!” Don’t be afraid to throw in a compliment!
If She’s Your Friend
For platonic girl friends, combine empathy with funny jabs. “Being an adulting expert looks tiring af. Good thing you have me and my lack of responsibilities to help you chill out!”
Or go the playful teasing route with “Wow Ms. Popularity, look at you being more in-demand than pizza on prom night! But ngl kinda rude to be too busy for your #1 bestie.” Some sass is perfectly friendly.
If She’s Your Girlfriend
In romantic relationships, too much busyness can unfortunately kill intimacy. Respond to her with understanding but don’t be afraid to ask for what you need, like “I know work is super crazy right now, but I miss you and really wanna spend some us time together soon, even if it’s just cuddling for a movie night.”
You can also say “I totally get hustling to meet your goals, I just don’t wanna lose our connection in the process. Could we plan a proper date night to reconnect?” Frame it around your feelings rather than attacking her.
How to Reply to Guys Who Say They’re Too Busy
Of course comeback inspiration should also factor in gender! So in addition to our main list, here are examples tailored specifically for handling busy boys.
If He’s Your Crush
Got the hots for someone who’d rather hang with their homework? First acknowledge their efforts. “I know you wanna keep those straight A’s, major respect for being so studious. If you ever need a cram break though, I’ll bring the good snacks and cuter company ;)” Add just enough flirt to entice his attention.
You could also bait his interest by making him think he’s missing out: “Ugh lucky you being such a diligent student! I bet girls are loving that big brain energy lol. I know my engineering friend Emily is always going for smart guys… But enough girl talk! You enjoy all that busyness, just no flirting with cute study buddies, got it mister? ;)”
If He’s Your Friend
For responding to your guy friends’ made up excuses, opt for either over-the-top silliness or sarcastic skepticism: “CURSES! Foiled again by the infamous scheduling monster! We shall have to slay the beast one day to resume bromance bonding sessions… But today I bid you adieu while you battle more pressing nerd priorities, dear chum!”
Or just go with: “Mmhmm yeah yeah add ‘pretending to study’ to your long list of practice from all those fake bathroom trips in middle school I guess. But hey no judgment, we all have our teenage flashbacks.” Some friendly suspicion never hurts lol.
If He’s Your Boyfriend
Got an overly busy baesanity? First acknowledge what’s occupying his schedule, then clearly express that you have needs in the relationship too. “I’m proud of you for going 110% to reach your goals babe. I just don’t want us to lose our intimate connection in the process. Could we plan a proper date night soon? I miss that special time with just us.”
Alternatively, appeal directly to his emotions and priorities: “I know you wanna be successful and provide for our future together. But there’s more to partnership than hustling. I need more us time too or I’ll start feeling lonely even if you’re close by.” Communicate gently but firmly.
In Closing
At the end of the day, don’t let lame excuses keep you from meaningful connections. We all get busy – but we all need laughter, friendship, flirting, and intimacy to thrive too.
So the next time someone tries to hide behind busyness when you ask to hang out, just reference this arsenal of snappy comebacks! Whether you clap back with humor, sass, or care, these creative responses will help you stand up for your needs and value.
However, it is inappropriate to always refuse dates because you are too busy at work and make the person who loves you wait. At this time, you can choose to customize an exquisite Enamel Pin to express your apology and make your relationship more harmonious and long-lasting.
Now quit reading and go make those plans happen! Let your bonds grow deeper than a bottomless inbox. Set aside space for playfulness, vulnerability, and mutual support through all of life’s hustles. Together is always better. 😊