Way of saying "not at work"

Question

Hi,Let's assume someone (Mr Frank) is not at work today (he might've called in sick or he's away on vacation/a business trip or he's late to work - doesn't matter which), and I'm trying to get on the horn with him - I call in and what would be the likeliest reply from the receptionist when I say that I need to talk to Mr Frank?Would these replies do (in a pinch)?1. Mr. Frank is not in2. Mr. Frank is not in this morning3. Mr Frank is away from work4. Mr. Frank hasn't come into work yetThanks !

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

Let's assume someone (Mr Frank) is not at work today (he might've called in sick or he's away on vacation/a business trip or he's late to work - doesn't matter which), and I'm trying to get on the horn with him - I call in and what would be the likeliest reply from the receptionist when I say that I need to talk to Mr Frank?

Would these replies do (in a pinch)?

1. Mr. Frank is not in

2. Mr. Frank is not in this morning

3. Mr Frank is away from work

4. Mr. Frank hasn't come into work yet

I typically hear

- He's not available.

- He's not in the office.

Very often, the office policy is not to give out any reasons or personal information.

So, you won't hear things like

- He's late for work again, as usual.

- He had to go to the doctor for a syphillis test.

- He's in jail, but we hope that the judge will soon let him out on bail.

Clive

MrPernickety · Answer

Thanks, Clive

I especially like the example with jail

By the way, do my four examples at least sound grammatical ?

Clive · Answer

Hi,

Yes. And they would be said sometimes.

Clive

Khoff · Answer

I would add that your fourth sentence implies that they are expecting him sometime today -- the others don't.

Way of saying "not at work"

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