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

to not have a minute to call one's own

PHRASE

to be so busy that one has no free time

to {not} [have] a minute to call {one's} own definition and meaning

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

With all the demands of running a small business, he doesn't have a minute to call his own these days.

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