What Time Works for You? Meaning and Usage

Meaning 1：when are you free? (What time works for you?)

What time works for you? 🔊

/wɒt taɪm wɜːrks fɔːr juː/

phrase

A polite question to ask someone when they are available or free to do something.

Two people checking calendars with clock times in a cafe

when are you free? 🔊

➕

/wen ɑːr juː friː/

phrase

A polite question used to ask someone to specify a time that is convenient for them to do something.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Each word is from Old English: 'what' (hwæt), 'time' (tīma), 'works' (wyrcan), 'for' (for), 'you' (ēow). Combined as a polite inquiry.

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine a clock with flexible hands: 'works' means the time fits your schedule like a key.

📖 Example

I'd love to discuss the project. What time works for you tomorrow? 🔊 I would like to talk about the project. Could you tell me a convenient time tomorrow?

🔗 Collocations

see what time works for you – To check or find out a suitable time for someone.

find a time that works for you – To locate a mutually convenient time.

does that time work for you? – A follow-up question confirming if a proposed time is suitable.

🔄 Synonyms

When is a good time for you? (phrase) – A synonymous polite inquiry about availability.

What time suits you? (phrase) – Another common alternative asking for a convenient time.

When are you available? (phrase) – A direct yet polite question about free time.

📖 Cultural Story

Rooted in modern English business etiquette, this phrase emerged in the 20th century as a respectful alternative to direct commands. It reflects the cultural value of considering others' schedules in collaborative settings.