I'm already busy / I already have plans.
'Impegnato' — im-pen-YA-to. The 'gn' makes a 'ny' sound as in 'canyon'. Stress on the third syllable.
Use when declining new plans because you already have other commitments. Direct but not rude — it's a clear statement of fact with no need for elaborate explanation.
'Impegnato/a' means busy, engaged, or committed. It's a versatile word that covers being busy with work, personal plans, or prior commitments. The gender ending changes: impegnato (male), impegnata (female).
Ho già un appuntamento.
I already have an appointment.
'Già' (already) is key — it signals the prior commitment came first
Quel giorno sono occupato/a.
I'm busy that day.
'Occupato/a' (occupied/busy) — more informal than 'impegnato/a'
Ho già qualcosa in programma.
I already have something planned.
Softer — implies plans exist without specifying what they are
Italians are often flexible about timing even when they can't make a specific slot. Proposing alternatives within the same day shows willingness and keeps the social bond strong.