not have a minute to call one's own

Definition & Meaning of "{not} [have] a minute to call {one's} own"

to not have a minute to call one's own

to be so busy that one has no free time

What is the origin of the idiom "not have a minute to call one's own" and when to use it?

The idiom "not have a minute to call one's own" is believed to have originated in the late 19th century. This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is extremely busy or has a lot of responsibilities, leaving them with no free time to relax or pursue their own interests.

Example

If we want to meet the deadline, we're all going to have to work overtime and not have a minute to call our own.

The students were so busy with their coursework and extracurricular activities that they didn't have a minute to call their own during the school year