I'm free

You can use this phrase on its own or add a time. If a friend asks to grab coffee, just say, I'm free! You can also say I'm free at 5 PM or I'm free this weekend. It works for both immediate moments and future plans. It is one of the first phrases you need for making friends.

Use it when you want to accept an invitation. Use it when a boss asks if you can talk. It is perfect for texting when someone asks, "Are you busy?" You can even use it at a store. If a clerk asks to help you, you might say, I'm free now if you were waiting. It shows you are ready to engage.

Be careful with the word free. Do not use it if you mean you cost no money! If you are a freelancer, saying I'm free sounds like you work for $0. Also, don't use it to mean "liberated from prison" in a casual chat. That would be a very intense coffee date! Stick to using it for your schedule and time.

In English-speaking cultures, time is seen as a resource. Being free means you have a surplus of that resource to share. It is a very polite way to show you value someone else's company. People love hearing this phrase because it implies you are making space for them. It is the start of almost every social gathering.

If you want to sound more casual, try I've got nothing going on. For a more professional vibe, use I have an opening. You might also hear My schedule is clear. If you are very excited, you can say I'm totally free! These all mean roughly the same thing but change the energy of the conversation.