약속이 있어요
I have plans / an appointment
Try it freeListen and repeat 약속이 있어요Use the audio examples below to practice this exact intention.Open →Explanation
약속 means an appointment, promise, or prior plan. 약속이 있어요 literally means “there is an appointment,” but naturally means “I already have plans.”
Use it to decline an invitation politely without needing to give personal details. You can say 그날은 약속이 있어요: “I have plans that day.”
If the plan is with a person, add 누구와: 친구와 약속이 있어요 means “I have plans with a friend.”
This phrase is neutral and practical. It does not have to mean a formal business appointment.
Examples
미안해요. 오늘 저녁에 약속이 있어요.
Mianhaeyo. Oneul jeonyeoge yaksogi isseoyo.
Sorry. I have plans this evening.
토요일에 친구와 약속이 있어요.
Toyoil-e chinguwa yaksogi isseoyo.
I have plans with a friend on Saturday.
Mini dialogue
A: 금요일에 영화 볼래요?
A: Would you like to see a movie on Friday?
B: 미안해요. 금요일에는 약속이 있어요.
B: Sorry. I have plans on Friday.
Common mistakes
- 약속이 있어요 means you have a plan; it does not mean “I promise” in this pattern.
- Use 와 after a vowel-final noun such as 친구; use 과 after a consonant-final noun.
How to practice
- A polite reason for not being available.
- 약속을 잡다 means “make an appointment / set plans.”
Check yourself
Question 1 of 1
What does 약속을 잡다 mean?
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