The word “busy” is a common term that we use to describe a state of being occupied or engaged in some activity. It is a word that is often used in our daily conversations and has become an integral part of our vocabulary. In this article, we will explore the various definitions, origins, meanings, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences of the word “busy.”
Definitions
The word “busy” has several definitions, depending on the context in which it is used. Some of the common definitions of busy are:
- Engaged in activity or work.
- Occupied with a task or duty.
- Having a lot to do or deal with.
- Involving a great deal of activity or movement.
Origin
The word “busy” has its origin in the Middle English word “bisig,” which means “occupied.” It is derived from the Old English word “bisig,” which means “anxious, diligent.” The word “busy” has been in use since the 14th century and has evolved over time to take on different meanings and associations.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of the word “busy” can vary slightly in different dictionaries. However, the general consensus is that it refers to a state of being occupied or engaged in some activity. Some of the common meanings of busy in different dictionaries are:
- Merriam-Webster: actively engaged in some activity.
- Oxford Dictionary: having a great deal to do or deal with.
- Cambridge Dictionary: having a lot of things to do or deal with.
- Collins Dictionary: engaged in activity or work.
Associations
The word “busy” is often associated with a sense of urgency, productivity, and efficiency. It is also associated with a feeling of being overwhelmed or stressed due to having too much to do. In some contexts, the word “busy” can have a negative connotation, implying that a person is too preoccupied with work or other activities to enjoy life.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for the word “busy,” depending on the context in which it is used. Some of the common synonyms of busy are:
- Active.
- Productive.
- Working.
- Involved.
- Assiduous.
- Industrious.
- Diligent.
Antonyms
The antonyms of the word “busy” are words that convey the opposite meaning. Some of the common antonyms of busy are:
- Idle.
- Inactive.
- Lazy.
- Unoccupied.
- Unengaged.
- Unproductive.
- Uninvolved.
The same root words
The word “busy” has several root words that are related to its meaning. Some of the common root words of busy are:
- Bisig (Old English): anxious, diligent.
- Besigian (Middle English): to occupy, employ.
- Beosecgan (Old English): to seek diligently.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that illustrate the use of the word “busy” in different contexts:
- She is always busy with work and never has time for herself.
- The restaurant was busy with customers all night.
- I have a busy day ahead of me with meetings and deadlines.
- The streets were busy with traffic during rush hour.
- The teacher kept the students busy with assignments and projects.
- He is a busy bee, always working on something.
- She was too busy to attend the party.
- The company is busy expanding its operations to other countries.