⏳❓🕒

How to Say ‘Do you have a moment now?’ in Simplified Chinese

您现在有空吗？

nín xiàn zài yǒu kòng ma

[neen xiànzài yǒukòng ma]

💬 Usage Tip: Putting 吗 at the end turns any statement into a yes/no question, and the word order stays the same: 您忙 "you're busy" becomes 您忙吗？ "are you busy?"

🇨🇳 In China: Using 您 (nín), the polite "you", and checking first whether the manager has time is the respectful way to open a sensitive conversation with your boss.

Phrase Breakdown

您现在

nín xiàn zài

you, right now

您 (nín) is the polite 'you'. 现在 (xiànzài) means 'now'. Both syllables of 现在 are falling tones.

Example

您现在在哪儿？

Where are you now?

Words in this phrase

您

nín

[neen]

you (polite)

A respectful form of “you,” used when speaking politely to someone, such as a recruiter or company representative.

Example

很高兴认识您，希望向您多学习。

It’s a pleasure to meet you; I hope to learn more from you.

现在

xiàn zài

[xiànzài]

now; currently

Refers to the present moment.

Example

现在可以点菜吗？

Can we order now?

有空吗？

yǒu kòng ma

are (you) free?

有空 (yǒu kòng) means 'to have free time'. Here 空 is said kòng in the falling tone, not kōng. 吗 (ma) makes it a question.

Example

你周末有空吗？

Are you free this weekend?

Words in this phrase

有空

yǒu kòng

[yǒukòng]

to be free; to have time

Means you are not busy and available right now.

Example

你明天有空吗？

Are you free tomorrow?

吗

[ma]

question particle

A sentence-final particle used to turn a statement into a yes-no question.

Example

你是第一次来吗？这里的“吗”表示提问。

Is this your first time here? Here, 吗 marks a question.

Get the Full Learning Experience

This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.

Pronunciation Feedback

AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Lessons for Your Situation

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Get Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

“Shanghai business dinners require real Mandarin skills. This app’s situation-based approach meant I could keep up with clients after just a month of practice.”

Ryan M., 36, Consultant

“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”

Alex M., 42, Software Engineer

“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”

Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager