Meaning
If you are "in the middle of doing something", you are busy doing it. You may be amid or amidst an activity and interrupted that may causes you to explain that you are busy.
Today's Sentences
- I'm in the middle of dinner.
- I'm in the middle of doing my homework.
- I'm in the middle of writing an email.
- I'm in the middle of practicing the guitar.
- I'm in the middle of doing something.
- Writer's Note
01
I'm in the middle of dinner.
Situation 1
Can you help me do my homework?
I'm in the middle of dinner.
Ok, can we look over it after you’re done?
Of course.
Situation 2
I’d like you to send an email to the head supervisor.
I'm in the middle of dinner.
I’m sorry, would you be able to send it after?
Yes, I’ll be sure to do that.
02
I’m in the middle of doing my homework.
Situation
Can you help me fold the laundry?
I'm in the middle of doing my homework.
Come and help when you’re done then.
I will.
03
I’m in the middle of writing an email.
Situation 1
Let’s have lunch!
I'm in the middle of writing an email.
When are you on lunch then?
As soon as I send this email out.
04
I’m in the middle of practicing the guitar.
Situation 1
Come and play with our ensemble tonight!
Actually, I'm in the middle of practicing the guitar.
I didn’t know you were busy.
Yes, I have a recital tomorrow.
Situation 2
Wanna watch a movie tonight?
I’d love to but I'm in the middle of practicing the guitar.
Oh, that’s too bad.
Maybe next time!
05
I’m in the middle of doing something.
Situation 1
I need you to wash the dishes and do the laundry.
I'm in the middle of doing something.
Is it important?
It is and it would be nice if you asked more politely next time.
Situation 2
Let’s have a quick meeting.
I'm in the middle of doing something.
Is it urgent?
Yes it is, can you reschedule the meeting at another time?
Writer’s Note
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been interrupted while I was in the middle of doing something. It could have been at work while I was super focused or it could have been when I was at home making dinner and both kids were telling me something at the same time. It could have been while I was listening to music or doing dishes and for some reason, the phone rings at the same time the kids are fighting and your partner is asking you a question. Ah.. life. Gets so crazy sometimes but now you know the perfect phrase to tell your coworkers or family that you’re busy. In a nice way.
Sometimes English sentences seem extra long but treat longer sentences as chunks for example, "I’m in the middle of" is one chunk and the rest of the sentence is another.
