What does “Other fish to fry” mean?

"Other fish to fry" means that there are other things to do or be concerned about.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I can't worry about that right now, I have other fish to fry.

Example

I don't have time for that, I have other fish to fry.

Example

Let's focus on the important tasks at hand, we have other fish to fry

Is “Other fish to fry” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Other fish to fry” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Other fish to fry” effectively in context?

You can use "Other fish to fry" to express that you have other things to do or be concerned about, implying that the current matter is not a priority. For example, if someone asks you to help them with a task, but you are already busy with other important tasks, you might say, 'I can't worry about that right now, I have other fish to fry.'

1Time Management
I don't have time for that, I have other fish to fry.
2Prioritization
Let's focus on the important tasks at hand, we have other fish to fry.
3Responsibilities
I can't attend the meeting, I have other fish to fry.

Similar phrases to “Other fish to fry”:

Have bigger fish to fry

To have more important or pressing matters to attend to

Example

I can't deal with this minor issue right now, I have bigger fish to fry.

Have other priorities

To have other tasks or responsibilities that take precedence

Example

I can't join you for lunch, I have other priorities at the moment.

Have more important things on one's plate

To have more pressing matters or tasks to deal with

Example

I can't take on any additional projects right now, I have more important things on my plate.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Other fish to fry” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Other fish to fry" is unknown.

Is “Other fish to fry” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Other fish to fry" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to convey that they have other tasks or responsibilities that take precedence over the current matter.

What tone does “Other fish to fry” have?

"Other fish to fry" conveys a tone of prioritization and focus. It suggests that there are more important things to attend to and implies that the current matter is not worth the time or attention.

Can “Other fish to fry” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Other fish to fry" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts to indicate that there are other tasks or responsibilities that need attention. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, colleagues, as well as in professional settings such as meetings or emails.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I have other fish to fry, so I can't help you right now.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Sorry, "other fish to fry"!' to imply that they are too busy to engage in a particular activity.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

have other things to do
have more important matters
have different concerns
have other obligations
have other commitments

Antonyms

have nothing else to do
have no other concerns
have all the time in the world
have no other obligations
have no other commitments