Chinese phrase
我家里有事 wǒ jiā lǐ yǒu shì
Meaning
I have something to take care of at home
When to use it
It states that something at home needs attention. It often gives a brief, polite reason for declining or postponing plans without sharing private details.
Example dialogue
今晚一起吃饭吗？ jīn wǎn yì qǐ chī fàn ma
Do you want to have dinner together tonight?
不好意思，我家里有事，改天吧。 bù hǎo yì si wǒ jiā lǐ yǒu shì gǎi tiān ba
Sorry, I have something to take care of at home, so maybe another day.