Sometimes, we all need a little time to ourselves or a space where we can focus without interruptions. While the standard “Do Not Disturb” is often the go-to for signaling that we need some peace, there are many other ways to express the same message.
Whether you’re in a work environment, studying, or simply seeking some quiet time at home, using different phrases can add a touch of personality and clarity to your request for privacy.
This article explores 50 alternative phrases for expressing the need for undisturbed time, offering examples and explanations for each one.
Whether you’re at home, in the office, or anywhere in between, these phrases will help you communicate your need for solitude in a creative and respectful way.
List of 50 Other Words for “Do Not Disturb”
- Please Knock
- No Interruptions
- Quiet Zone
- Privacy Requested
- Silent Mode
- Busy
- Meeting in Progress
- Focus Time
- Working
- In a Session
- Concentration Zone
- Engaged
- Deep Work
- Not Available
- Do Not Enter
- On a Call
- Please Wait
- Quiet, Please
- Unavailable
- At Work
- Hold All Calls
- On a Break
- In a Meeting
- Do Not Knock
- Resting
- Recording in Progress
- Silent Hours
- Off Duty
- No Disturbance
- Study Time
- Away
- In Conference
- Busy Zone
- Focused Work
- Recording
- Out of Office
- Please Be Quiet
- Do Not Contact
- Private Time
- Concentration Required
- Occupied
- No Calls
- Heads Down
- In Deep Thought
- Taking a Break
- Research in Progress
- Planning Session
- Productivity Zone
- In Discussion
- In the Zone
1. Please Knock Before Entering to Avoid Interruptions
This phrase is a polite way to let others know that while you might not be entirely unavailable, you would appreciate being notified before they enter.
Example:
You: “I’m working on a project in my room—please knock before entering to avoid interruptions.”
Friend: “Got it, I’ll make sure to knock first.”
You: “Thanks, I appreciate that.”
2. No Interruptions While Focused on Important Tasks
This phrase directly asks for no interruptions, emphasizing that you’re busy with something important.
Example:
You: “I’m deep into this report, so no interruptions while focused on important tasks, please.”
Colleague: “I’ll make sure not to disturb you until you’re done.”
You: “Thanks, I’ll let you know when I’m available again.”
3. Quiet Zone: Please Respect the Need for Silence
Declaring a quiet zone can help create an atmosphere of calm, ideal for studying or working in shared spaces.
Example:
You: “Hey guys, I’ve made this corner a quiet zone, so please respect the need for silence.”
Roommate: “Absolutely, I’ll keep the noise down around here.”
You: “That means a lot, thank you.”
4. Privacy Requested for Personal Time
When you need a bit of solitude, this phrase makes it clear that you’re seeking privacy for yourself.
Example:
You: “I’m going to close my door for a bit—privacy requested for personal time.”
Family Member: “Understood, I’ll give you some space.”
You: “Thank you, I just need a moment to recharge.”
5. Silent Mode: Minimizing Distractions
Silent mode is perfect for when you want to limit distractions without necessarily isolating yourself completely.
Example:
You: “I’m putting my phone on silent mode, so I won’t see notifications right away.”
Friend: “No worries, I’ll text you later.”
You: “Appreciate it, thanks for your understanding.”
6. Busy Working on Something Time-Sensitive
Using busy suggests that you are occupied and may not be able to respond immediately to inquiries.
Example:
You: “I’m busy working on something time-sensitive, so I won’t be available for a while.”
Colleague: “Got it, I’ll check in with you later.”
You: “Thanks for your patience!”
7. Meeting in Progress: Please Do Not Disturb
This phrase is ideal for letting people know you’re in a meeting or having a discussion.
Example:
You: “There’s a meeting in progress in my office, please hold all calls.”
Assistant: “Understood, I’ll make sure no one disturbs you.”
You: “Thanks, I’ll be available afterward.”
8. Focus Time: Limiting All Interruptions
Focus time is a phrase that emphasizes your need to concentrate without distractions.
Example:
You: “I’ve set aside this afternoon for focus time, so please don’t interrupt unless it’s urgent.”
Coworker: “I’ll leave you to it then.”
You: “Thanks for understanding!”
9. Working: Please Allow Me to Concentrate
Sometimes, simply stating that you’re working is enough to communicate your need for privacy.
Example:
You: “I’m working on a project right now, so I’ll need some quiet time.”
Roommate: “Sure thing, I’ll keep it down.”
You: “Appreciate it!”
10. In a Session: Do Not Disturb Until Done
In a session can refer to meetings, classes, or even therapy, and it implies that interruptions are unwelcome.
Example:
You: “I’m in a session, so I won’t be available for the next hour.”
Client: “No problem, I’ll reach out afterward.”
You: “Thank you for understanding.”
11. Concentration Zone: Please Respect the Silence
This phrase creates a concentration zone where focus and silence are priorities.
Example:
You: “This area is now a concentration zone, so please respect the silence.”
Coworker: “Got it, I won’t disturb you.”
You: “Thank you, it helps a lot.”
12. Engaged: Not Available for Interruptions Right Now
Saying you are engaged indicates that you’re occupied with something important and can’t be disturbed.
Example:
You: “I’m engaged with a task right now, so please hold off on questions.”
Team Member: “No problem, I’ll come back later.”
You: “Thanks, I’ll be done soon.”
13. Deep Work: Please Don’t Distract
The phrase deep work suggests a high level of focus, suitable for when you’re working on tasks that require full attention.
Example:
You: “I’m in deep work mode, so I’d appreciate no distractions for the next few hours.”
Colleague: “Got it, I’ll reach out after.”
You: “Thank you for your consideration.”
14. Not Available: Catch Me Later
Saying you’re not available is a straightforward way of letting others know that now isn’t the best time for interaction.
Example:
You: “Hey, I’m not available right now—can we chat later?”
Friend: “Sure, just text me when you’re free.”
You: “Will do, thanks!”
15. Do Not Enter: Respecting Boundaries
Do Not Enter is a direct way to ensure others respect your space, whether it’s a room, office, or workspace.
Example:
You: “I’ve put a Do Not Enter sign on the door, just need some quiet time.”
Sibling: “Okay, I won’t come in until you’re ready.”
You: “Thanks for understanding!”
16. On a Call: Please Do Not Interrupt
When you’re on a call, it’s important to make sure others know you’re occupied and not to be disturbed.
Example: You: “I’m on a call, so please don’t interrupt unless it’s urgent.” Colleague: “Got it, I’ll wait until you’re free.” You: “Thanks, I’ll let you know when I’m done.”
17. Please Wait: Currently Unavailable
Using please wait is a gentle way of saying you’re not available at the moment but will be shortly.
Example:
You: “I’m in the middle of something—please wait a few minutes before you knock.”
Roommate: “Sure, I’ll hang tight.”
You: “Thank you for being patient.”
18. Quiet, Please: Need Some Silence
Quiet, please is a simple yet effective way to request a quiet environment, perfect for focusing or relaxing.
Example:
You: “I’m studying for an exam—quiet, please until I finish.”
Friend: “Of course, I’ll keep the volume down.”
You: “Thanks, it means a lot.”
19. Unavailable: Please Try Again Later
When you need to set clear boundaries, unavailable is a direct way to convey that you aren’t free.
Example:
You: “I’m unavailable right now, but I can chat later this afternoon.”
Colleague: “That works, I’ll check back then.”
You: “Perfect, thanks for understanding.”
20. At Work: Focused and Busy
This phrase highlights that you’re at work and therefore not open to casual interruptions.
Example:
You: “I’m at work right now, so I’ll need to stay focused.”
Family Member: “I’ll call you back when you’re done.”
You: “Thanks, talk to you later.”
21. Hold All Calls: Not Taking Any Right Now
Hold all calls is often used in professional settings to ensure that your attention isn’t pulled away.
Example:
You: “Can you hold all calls for the next hour? I’m working on a tight deadline.”
Assistant: “Absolutely, I’ll make sure no calls come through.”
You: “That’s a big help, thank you.”
22. On a Break: Unavailable for a Bit
Letting others know you’re on a break can signal that you’re taking time to recharge.
Example:
You: “I’m on a break for the next 15 minutes, so I’ll catch up afterward.”
Colleague: “Sounds good, enjoy your break!”
You: “Thanks, I just need a quick recharge.”
23. In a Meeting: Please Do Not Disturb
When you’re in a meeting, this phrase makes it clear that your time is occupied.
Example:
You: “I’m in a meeting until 3 PM, so I won’t be available until then.”
Coworker: “Got it, I’ll reach out after.”
You: “Thanks for waiting.”
24. Do Not Knock: Appreciate the Quiet
Do not knock is a firm way to ask for privacy, particularly when you need complete focus.
Example:
You: “I’ve got a sign up that says do not knock—I need to concentrate.”
Neighbor: “Understood, I won’t bother you.”
You: “Thanks, I really appreciate it.”
25. Resting: Please Let Me Recharge
When you need some downtime, saying you’re resting is a clear indicator that you’d like to be left alone.
Example:
You: “I’m resting for a bit after that long meeting, so I’d appreciate some quiet time.”
Friend: “Of course, I’ll check in later.”
You: “Thank you, I need a moment to recharge.”
26. Recording in Progress: No Disturbance, Please
This phrase is useful if you’re creating content or working on something that requires a quiet environment.
Example:
You: “I have recording in progress—please don’t enter until I’m finished.”
Roommate: “Sure, I’ll wait until you’re done.”
You: “Thanks, that helps a lot.”
27. Silent Hours: Respecting the Need for Peace
Declaring silent hours lets others know that you’re taking time for quiet, whether it’s early in the morning or late at night.
Example:
You: “These are my silent hours, so please keep noise to a minimum.”
Neighbor: “Absolutely, I’ll keep things quiet.”
You: “Thank you, it’s much appreciated.”
28. Off Duty: Not Available Right Now
Saying you’re off duty indicates that you’re taking a break from work or responsibilities.
Example:
You: “I’m off duty for the evening, so I’ll catch up tomorrow.”
Coworker: “Got it, enjoy your time off!”
You: “Thanks, see you tomorrow.”
29. No Disturbance: Need Complete Focus
A straightforward request for no disturbance can help you maintain focus during critical tasks.
Example:
You: “I’m working on a big project—no disturbance until I’m done, please.”
Family Member: “Understood, I’ll give you your space.”
You: “Thanks, I appreciate that.”
30. Study Time: Focusing on Learning
Study time is a clear indication that you’re dedicating time to learning and don’t want to be interrupted.
Example:
You: “It’s study time, so I need some quiet until I’m finished with my notes.”
Sibling: “Sure, I’ll keep it down.”
You: “Thanks, I really need to focus.”
31. Away: Not Available for a While
Saying you’re away communicates that you’re temporarily unavailable, whether physically or mentally.
Example:
You: “I’m away for the afternoon, so I’ll respond when I get back.”
Colleague: “Okay, I’ll catch you later.”
You: “Thanks for your patience!”
32. In Conference: Do Not Disturb Until Done
When you’re in conference, it’s a professional way of letting others know that you’re not free.
Example:
You: “I’m in conference until 2 PM, so please hold any calls until after that.”
Assistant: “Will do, I’ll ensure you’re not interrupted.”
You: “Appreciate it, thanks.”
33. Busy Zone: Working Without Distractions
Calling a space a busy zone lets others know that work is happening and interruptions aren’t welcome.
Example:
You: “This room is a busy zone right now, so please knock before entering.”
Roommate: “Sure thing, I’ll give you space.”
You: “Thanks, it’s a big help.”
34. Focused Work: Not Available for Chit-Chat
Focused work implies that you’re deep into a task and can’t afford distractions.
Example:
You: “I’m in focused work mode, so I won’t be available for small talk for the next hour.”
Coworker: “Got it, I’ll see you after.”
You: “Thanks for the understanding!”
35. Recording: Need Silence for Best Results
Recording is a clear way to indicate that noise could disrupt your process, whether for audio or video.
Example:
You: “I’m recording, so please keep things quiet until I finish up.”
Neighbor: “Understood, I’ll make sure not to make any noise.”
You: “Thank you, it’s a big help.”
36. Out of Office: Not Available for Immediate Response
When you’re out of office, it’s a polite way of saying you’re not available for work-related matters.
Example:
You: “I’m out of office today, so I’ll respond to emails tomorrow.”
Colleague: “Thanks for the heads-up, I’ll reach out then.”
You: “Appreciate your understanding!”
37. Please Be Quiet: Need a Moment of Silence
Please be quiet is a straightforward request when you need a quiet environment for focus or relaxation.
Example:
You: “I’m working on a project—please be quiet until I’m done.”
Roommate: “Got it, I’ll keep things down.”
You: “Thanks, I really appreciate it.”
38. Do Not Contact: Need a Break from Communication
When you say do not contact, it’s a firm way to indicate that you need some time away from communication.
Example:
You: “For the next hour, do not contact me unless it’s an emergency.”
Friend: “No worries, I’ll wait until you’re free.”
You: “Thank you for understanding!”
39. Private Time: Need Some Personal Space
Private time is a gentle way to express that you need time to yourself without interruptions.
Example:
You: “I’m taking some private time, so please don’t disturb for the next hour.”
Family Member: “Got it, I’ll give you your space.”
You: “Thanks, I appreciate it.”
40. Concentration Required: Please Hold All Interruptions
When you say concentration required, it emphasizes that you need to focus deeply and can’t be disturbed.
Example:
You: “I’m working on something that needs full focus—concentration required, so please don’t knock.”
Coworker: “Sure, I’ll wait until you’re done.”
You: “Thank you, this really helps.”
41. Occupied: Please Do Not Disturb
Occupied is a clear and simple term to let others know that you’re busy with something.
Example:
You: “I’m occupied for the next half-hour, so I’ll get back to you after that.”
Colleague: “Got it, I’ll reach out later.”
You: “Thanks for your patience!”
42. No Calls: Taking Time Away from the Phone
No calls is a great way to indicate that you’re not available to take phone calls at the moment.
Example:
You: “I have no calls policy for the next hour while I work.”
Assistant: “Understood, I’ll let any callers know.”
You: “Thanks, it makes a big difference!”
43. Heads Down: Focusing on a Task
When you’re heads down, it means you’re deep into a task and can’t be distracted.
Example:
You: “I’m in heads down mode working on this report, so I’ll catch up later.”
Coworker: “Sure, I’ll check in afterward.”
You: “Thanks, I appreciate it.”
44. In Deep Thought: Please Do Not Interrupt
In deep thought suggests that you’re working through a problem or idea and need quiet time.
Example:
You: “I’m in deep thought about this project, so please don’t disturb me for a bit.”
Colleague: “Got it, I’ll give you space.”
You: “Thanks for the understanding.”
45. Taking a Break: Need Some Time to Recharge
Saying you’re taking a break indicates that you’re stepping away from work or tasks temporarily.
Example:
You: “I’m taking a break for the next 10 minutes, so I’ll be back shortly.”
Coworker: “Enjoy, I’ll catch you when you’re back.”
You: “Thank you, I’ll be ready to go soon.”
46. Research in Progress: Need to Stay Focused
Research in progress tells others that you’re engaged in deep work that requires concentration.
Example:
You: “I’ve got research in progress, so please keep the noise level down for the next hour.”
Roommate: “Sure thing, I’ll be quiet.”
You: “Much appreciated, thanks!”
47. Planning Session: Working on Something Important
When you’re in a planning session, it signals that you’re busy strategizing or organizing and don’t want interruptions.
Example:
You: “I’m in a planning session, so I’ll need some quiet time to focus.”
Colleague: “No problem, I’ll touch base later.”
You: “Thanks for understanding.”
48. Productivity Zone: Focused on Getting Things Done
Productivity zone means you’re in a state of high focus, working efficiently without distractions.
Example:
You: “I’m in my productivity zone, so let’s catch up after I finish this task.”
Coworker: “Sounds good, I’ll check in later.”
You: “Thanks, appreciate the space.”
49. In Discussion: Busy Talking, Please Hold
In discussion is a way to let others know that you’re engaged in a conversation or meeting.
Example:
You: “I’m in discussion with a client right now, so I’ll get back to you soon.”
Assistant: “Got it, I’ll let others know you’re busy.”
You: “Thank you for the help!”
50. In the Zone: Working Without Distractions
Saying you’re in the zone tells others that you’re deeply focused and don’t want to be interrupted.
Example:
You: “I’m really in the zone with this project, so please don’t disturb until I’m finished.”
Colleague: “Got it, I’ll check back later.”
You: “Thanks, I’ll be done soon.”
Conclusion: Finding the Right Way to Say “Do Not Disturb”
Choosing the right words for “do not disturb” can make a big difference in how others respect your time and space. Whether you’re working on a project, in a meeting, or simply need quiet time, these phrases can help you set boundaries clearly and politely.
By using different variations like “in a session” or “on a call”, you can ensure that your needs are understood while keeping communication friendly and professional.
Next time you need a little peace, try out these alternatives and find the one that suits your situation best. Do.
