多忙

• Reading: たぼう
• Romaji: tabou
• Kanji breakdown: 多 (ta) — many, much | 忙 (bo) — busy, occupied
• Pronunciation: /ta.bo.ː/

Meaning

Very busy; occupied; hectic. Describes a state of having far too much to do.

A na-adjective and noun indicating an overwhelming degree of busyness, stronger than simply 忙しい (busy). Common in formal and business contexts. The set phrase 多忙を極める means 'to be at the peak of busyness'. Often used in polite letters and emails to acknowledge someone's demanding schedule.

Examples

1. 年度末は多忙を極め、連日深夜まで残業が続いた。 The end of the fiscal year was extremely hectic, with overtime lasting until late at night day after day.
2. 多忙なスケジュールの中でも、彼女は家族との時間を大切にしていた。 Even amid her busy schedule, she made sure to cherish time with her family.
3. 仕事が多忙で趣味に割ける時間がほとんどなく、心身ともに消耗していた。 Work was so hectic that she had almost no time for hobbies, and she was worn out both physically and mentally.

Usage Guide

Context: business letters, workplace, formal speech

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

Compound of 多 (ta) meaning 'many, much' and 忙 (bo) meaning 'busy, occupied'. Together they intensify the idea of busyness, suggesting an excessive or overwhelming workload.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Working professionals