What are you up to

Meaning

"What are you up to?" is an idiomatic expression used to ask someone about their plans, activities, or intentions for the near future. It can also be used to express curiosity or concern about someone's actions or motivations.

Usage

• "Hey John, what are you up to this weekend?" - This question is casual and friendly, and it suggests that the speaker is interested in knowing what John has planned for his free time.
• "I heard you're thinking of starting your own business. What are you up to?" - This question is more formal and professional, and it expresses concern about someone's plans or intentions.
• "What are you up to right now? I was just wondering if you wanted to grab some coffee." - This question is polite and friendly, and it suggests that the speaker wants to spend time with the person being asked.
• "I don't know what I'm up to, honestly. Just trying to get through the day." - This answer is honest and straightforward, and it shows that the person doesn't have any big plans or intentions at the moment.
• "What are you up to? I was just thinking about inviting you to a charity event next week." - This question is friendly and polite, and it expresses interest in knowing if someone would like to participate in a charitable event.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom is unclear, but it is believed to have been used in English since the 19th century. It may have evolved from earlier expressions such as "what have you got planned?" or "what do you have in mind?" The meaning of the idiom has remained relatively stable over time, but it has become more commonly used in contemporary language.

Synonyms in English

• What are your plans for today/this week?
• What do you have in store for us?
• What do you have up your sleeve?
• What's the plan for tomorrow?
• What's on your agenda?

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "Qu'est ce que vous avez prévu?" (What did you plan?)
• Spanish: "¿Qué tienes previsto?" (What do you have planned?)
• German: "Was hast du geplant?" (What did you plan?)
• Italian: "Chiudiamo un lavoro, cosa stai facendo nei prossimi giorni?" (We're finishing work, what are you doing in the next few days?)
• Russian: "Что будет теперь?" (What will be now?)

Similar Idioms

• with a bang

• dig up dirt

• ginger up