i was busy reading my novel vs i was busy with my novel

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'I was busy reading my novel' implies that the person was occupied with the act of reading the novel, while 'I was busy with my novel' suggests that the person was preoccupied with something related to the novel, such as writing, editing, or thinking about it.

Last updated: March 22, 2024 • 2025 views

i was busy reading my novel

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate that someone was occupied with the activity of reading their novel.

Examples:

I couldn't join you for dinner last night because I was busy reading my novel.
She spent the whole weekend indoors, busy reading her novel.
He missed the bus stop because he was so busy reading his novel.

Alternatives:

I was engrossed in reading my novel.
I was immersed in my novel.
I was caught up in my novel.
I was absorbed in my novel.
I was focused on reading my novel.

i was busy with my novel

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate that someone was preoccupied with something related to their novel, such as writing, editing, or thinking about it.

Examples:

I couldn't go out with my friends because I was busy with my novel.
She locked herself in her room, busy with her novel.
He missed the deadline because he was too busy with his novel.

Alternatives:

I was occupied with my novel.
I was engrossed in my novel.
I was immersed in my novel.
I was caught up in my novel.
I was absorbed in my novel.

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i was busy reading my novel vs i was busy with my novel