Skip to main content

SIOC Language Labs · Reviewed with care · 9 August 2026

Ways to say “I’m in a hurry”

Sound more at ease in everyday English. These A2–B2 expressions show how meaning, tone and context work together in real conversations.

EnglishA2–B2Natural Speech

Let's practise

I’m in a rush.

Use it for: common neutral

Sorry, I’m in a rush this morning.

I’m running late.

Use it for: late for something

I’m running late for class.

I’ve got to run.

Use it for: informal departure

I’ve got to run — my train leaves in ten minutes.

I’m pressed for time.

Use it for: more formal

I’m pressed for time, so can we keep this brief?

I’m short on time.

Use it for: neutral

I’m short on time today.

Helpful tip: Natural language is about fit, not difficulty. Start with two expressions you like and use them in situations you can imagine yourself having.

Your turn

Choose I’m in a rush. and one other expression above. Say the same idea in two different ways. Which one would you use with a classmate, and which feels better in a more careful conversation?

Ready for another?

English Language Lab → · All SIOC Language Labs → · Explore language schools →

Nice work. Short, regular practice is enough — come back tomorrow and let these phrases feel a little more familiar.

SIOC Language Labs · Practice deeper

Go a little deeper

Use the language on this page in a situation that feels real to you. The aim is not to memorise a perfect script, but to build enough flexibility to respond, clarify and continue naturally.

Use it in context

Choose three expressions from the lesson. Put each one into a complete sentence, then change one detail such as the person, place, time, priority or problem. Notice which words must change and which part of the phrase stays useful.

Change one detail each time you repeat the activity. A small change forces you to choose language rather than simply recite it.

Mini dialogue

  1. Start with one clear statement or request from the lesson.
  2. Add one realistic response, question or complication.
  3. Reply again with one extra detail and finish by confirming what happens next.

Pronunciation & listening

Read the key phrases aloud at a natural pace. Mark the words that carry the main meaning and let the smaller grammar words stay lighter. Then listen for those same stressed words when you hear similar language in class, at work or in everyday conversation.

Make it yours

Say the exchange aloud twice. First keep it short. Then repeat it with a reason, preference, example or consequence. If you get stuck, reformulate with simpler words rather than stopping. That ability to keep the conversation moving is more useful than sounding perfect.