When it comes to showing respect for someone’s time, using the right phrase can convey both politeness and flexibility. Instead of repeatedly saying “at your convenience,” exploring alternative expressions can enhance your communication, making it feel more personalized, thoughtful, and professional.
This article will explore 30 alternatives to “at your convenience,” offering various tones and scenarios to help you communicate with ease and care.
What Does “At Your Convenience” Mean?
“At your convenience” is a phrase that conveys flexibility and respect for the other person’s time. It’s typically used to indicate that an action or request can be carried out whenever the other person has the time or availability. It suggests that there’s no rush and that the other person can decide when it’s most suitable for them.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “At Your Convenience”?
Yes, “at your convenience” is both polite and professional, especially when you want to show that you respect someone’s schedule and are flexible in accommodating them. However, overusing the phrase can make it sound impersonal. Opting for different expressions will allow you to maintain the same level of courtesy while keeping your communication varied and more engaging.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using “At Your Convenience”
Advantages
- Respectful tone: Shows consideration for the other person’s time.
- Flexible: Implies that the person can take their time and choose when to respond or act.
- Professional: Works well in business and formal settings.
Disadvantages
- Overuse: Repeating this phrase may sound robotic or formulaic.
- Vague: It doesn’t specify a time frame, which could lead to procrastination or delays.
- Lacks urgency: This may not work well in time-sensitive situations.
At Your Convenience Of Synonyms:
- When you have a moment
- When it’s most convenient for you
- At your earliest convenience
- Whenever you’re ready
- Whenever works best for you
- When you get a chance
- At a time that suits you
- Whenever you find time
- When you’re available
- When you have time
- As your schedule allows
- When it’s convenient for you
- When you’re free
- Whenever it’s convenient
- When you’re able
- At a time of your choosing
- When it fits your schedule
- Whenever you have a free moment
- Whenever you’re able
- When it works for you
- Whenever it’s suitable
- At your earliest availability
- When the time is right
- Whenever you can
- At a time that works for you
- When it’s best for you
- At a moment that’s convenient
- Whenever you’re in the position
- When you’re not too busy
- When you’re able to make time
1. When You Have a Moment
Meaning: When you have a small amount of free time.
Definition: A polite way to indicate that the action or request can be done whenever the other person has a brief break.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase implies flexibility without being overly demanding, offering the person space to decide when they can attend to something.
Scenario Example: “Please feel free to review the report when you have a moment.”
Best Use: Ideal for casual or friendly professional communication.
Tone: Polite, respectful.
2. When It’s Most Convenient for You
Meaning: At a time that best fits the other person’s schedule.
Definition: Emphasizes the importance of the other person’s availability and preference.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase suggests flexibility while still being considerate of the other person’s time constraints.
Scenario Example: “Please get back to me when it’s most convenient for you.”
Best Use: Professional emails or requests.
Tone: Thoughtful, accommodating.
3. At Your Earliest Convenience
Meaning: As soon as it’s possible for the other person, without any rush.
Definition: A courteous way to request that something be done soon but not urgently.
Detailed Explanation: Adds a sense of promptness while still being considerate of the person’s other commitments.
Scenario Example: “Could you send over the details at your earliest convenience?”
Best Use: Business communication when some level of urgency is implied, but not critical.
Tone: Polite, respectful.
4. Whenever You’re Ready
Meaning: At the time the other person feels prepared or able to respond.
Definition: Indicates no rush and that the person has control over when to take action.
Detailed Explanation: Often used when offering flexibility and showing patience.
Scenario Example: “Feel free to send the updated proposal whenever you’re ready.”
Best Use: Ideal for relaxed professional or personal contexts.
Tone: Calm, respectful.
5. Whenever Works Best for You
Meaning: At the time that is most convenient for the other person.
Definition: Focuses on the other person’s comfort and preferences.
Detailed Explanation: A flexible way to give someone the autonomy to choose a time that works for them.
Scenario Example: “We can schedule the meeting whenever works best for you.”
Best Use: Flexible scheduling or requests for feedback.
Tone: Considerate, respectful.
6. When You Get a Chance
Meaning: When the person has a moment of free time.
Definition: Implies an opportunity for the person to act when their schedule allows.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is often used informally but can be adapted to a professional context. It adds a sense of ease without placing pressure on the person.
Scenario Example: “Let me know your thoughts when you get a chance.”
Best Use: Casual or informal settings, but can also work in less formal professional contexts.
Tone: Casual, respectful.
7. At a Time That Suits You
Meaning: At a time that is most suitable for the other person.
Definition: Emphasizes ease and comfort for the person you’re addressing.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests flexibility while respecting the person’s preferences.
Scenario Example: “We can chat at a time that suits you.”
Best Use: Ideal for setting meetings or asking for feedback respectfully.
Tone: Accommodating, polite.
8. Whenever You Find Time
Meaning: When you’re able to make time in your schedule.
Definition: Focuses on the person’s ability to carve out time when they are able.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests patience and understanding that the person may have other commitments.
Scenario Example: “Feel free to review the document whenever you find time.”
Best Use: Non-urgent requests for personal or professional matters.
Tone: Respectful, patient.
9. When You’re Available
Meaning: At the time when the other person has free time.
Definition: A straightforward and polite way to ask for the person’s availability.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is simple, clear, and respectful, making it widely applicable.
Scenario Example: “Please let me know when you’re available to discuss this further.”
Best Use: Professional meetings or informal requests.
Tone: Professional, neutral.
10. When You Have Time
Meaning: When the person is free or has a moment to spare.
Definition: A simple way to suggest flexibility without urgency.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase allows for a relaxed, respectful tone, perfect when the timing of the task or request isn’t urgent.
Scenario Example: “I’d love your thoughts when you have time to share them.”
Best Use: Informal or semi-formal settings.
Tone: Casual, respectful.
11. As Your Schedule Allows
Meaning: When it fits within the person’s timetable.
Definition: Implies a consideration for the person’s busy schedule and a request for flexibility.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase conveys patience and respect for the other person’s time while acknowledging that they may have other priorities.
Scenario Example: “Please respond to this when your schedule allows.”
Best Use: Professional settings or when making a polite request without urgency.
Tone: Respectful, professional.
12. When It’s Convenient for You
Meaning: At a time that works best for the other person.
Definition: A courteous way to offer flexibility, focusing on the other person’s comfort and availability.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is polite and non-demanding, showing that you respect the other person’s time and commitments.
Scenario Example: “Feel free to give me a call when it’s convenient for you.”
Best Use: Best for both personal and professional communication where flexibility is needed.
Tone: Considerate, polite.
13. When You’re Free
Meaning: When the person has some spare time or availability.
Definition: A casual and straightforward phrase that indicates flexibility.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is less formal and often used in more casual or personal conversations.
Scenario Example: “Let me know when you’re free to catch up.”
Best Use: Ideal for informal settings or social requests.
Tone: Casual, friendly.
14. Whenever It’s Convenient
Meaning: When it works best for the other person, with no rush.
Definition: A flexible phrase that emphasizes that there’s no urgency.
Detailed Explanation: Offers the person complete freedom in deciding when they can respond or take action.
Scenario Example: “Please get back to me whenever it’s convenient for you.”
Best Use: Ideal for situations where timing is flexible, such as follow-up emails.
Tone: Polite, respectful.
15. When You’re Able
Meaning: When the person is in a position to do so.
Definition: Focuses on the person’s ability to act, without implying any rush.
Detailed Explanation: Suggest that you understand the person’s current circumstances.
Scenario Example: “Please submit your feedback when you’re able to.”
Best Use: Professional and considerate when deadlines are flexible.
Tone: Understanding, patient.
16. At a Time of Your Choosing
Meaning: When you decide it’s the right time.
Definition: A respectful phrase that gives the person full control over timing.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase emphasizes autonomy and respect for the person’s schedule.
Scenario Example: “Feel free to contact me at a time of your choosing.”
Best Use: Professional settings, where flexibility is appreciated.
Tone: Respectful, accommodating.
17. When It Fits Your Schedule
Meaning: At a time that works best within the person’s available time slots.
Definition: Highlights respect for the person’s existing commitments and acknowledges their schedule.
Detailed Explanation: Similar to “at your convenience,” but with a more specific emphasis on fitting into someone’s busy day.
Scenario Example: “Let’s meet when it fits your schedule.”
Best Use: Scheduling meetings, appointments, or follow-ups.
Tone: Polite, accommodating.
18. Whenever You Have a Free Moment
Meaning: When the person has a brief period available.
Definition: Suggests that the person can take action in a short amount of time whenever it’s convenient for them.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is ideal when requesting something that doesn’t require a lot of time or immediate attention.
Scenario Example: “Please review the proposal whenever you have a free moment.”
Best Use: Non-urgent requests, especially in casual or semi-formal settings.
Tone: Casual, respectful.
19. Whenever You’re Able
Meaning: When the person has the ability or time to take action.
Definition: A polite phrase used when there’s no urgency, but a task is still expected to be completed.
Detailed Explanation: A way to respect the person’s situation while still expressing a desire for action.
Scenario Example: “Please let me know your availability whenever you’re able to.”
Best Use: For tasks or responses where timing is flexible but the person needs to respond eventually.
Tone: Considerate, respectful.
20. When It Works for You
Meaning: At the time that is most convenient or suitable for the other person.
Definition: A simple, polite way to acknowledge that the other person’s time is valuable.
Detailed Explanation: Focuses on the ease of scheduling or completing a task at the other person’s convenience.
Scenario Example: “Let me know when it works for you to discuss the project.”
Best Use: Scheduling meetings or follow-ups, either personal or professional.
Tone: Flexible, accommodating.
21. Whenever It’s Suitable
Meaning: When it fits into the person’s schedule or convenience.
Definition: Suggests that there is no rush, and timing can be adjusted according to the person’s availability.
Detailed Explanation: A polite, somewhat formal way of giving someone time to fit the request into their schedule.
Scenario Example: “Please get back to me whenever it’s suitable for you.”
Best Use: Suitable for professional or formal contexts.
Tone: Polite, respectful.
22. At Your Earliest Availability
Meaning: As soon as you are available.
Definition: A phrase that balances politeness with a slightly more urgent tone, without sounding demanding.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is useful when some level of promptness is needed, but there’s still respect for the person’s time.
Scenario Example: “Please provide the feedback at your earliest availability.”
Best Use: Professional emails where some urgency is implied.
Tone: Professional, considerate.
23. When the Time Is Right
Meaning: When it’s the appropriate moment for the other person.
Definition: Suggests that the timing can be adjusted based on the person’s circumstances.
Detailed Explanation: Used when you want to imply that the action or response can happen at a later time, but not necessarily immediately.
Scenario Example: “We can meet when the time is right for you.”
Best Use: Best for flexible scheduling and setting appointments or meetings.
Tone: Considerate, respectful.
24. Whenever You Can
Meaning: When you can do so.
Definition: A polite way to express that there’s no urgency but that you still expect the action to be completed.
Detailed Explanation: A friendly, easygoing expression often used in both professional and personal communication.
Scenario Example: “Let me know whenever you can.”
Best Use: Casual or semi-formal communication.
Tone: Relaxed, polite.
25. At a Time That Works for You
Meaning: At a moment when it fits into the person’s schedule.
Definition: A flexible expression that places the decision of timing in the hands of the recipient.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase offers convenience and emphasizes the recipient’s comfort and freedom in choosing the right moment.
Scenario Example: “Please let me know a time that works for you to discuss further.”
Best Use: Ideal for professional settings, scheduling, and follow-up emails.
Tone: Polite, accommodating.
26. When It’s Best for You
Meaning: When it is most suitable for the person.
Definition: A courteous way to give the other person the flexibility to choose the right time for action.
Detailed Explanation: Used to convey respect and understanding of the other person’s busy schedule.
Scenario Example: “Feel free to reach out when it’s best for you.”
Best Use: Professional or casual communication when timing isn’t critical.
Tone: Respectful, considerate.
27. At a Moment That’s Convenient
Meaning: When the time is suitable for the person.
Definition: A flexible and polite way of indicating that there’s no rush and the timing can be adjusted to fit the person’s schedule.
Detailed Explanation: Offers a sense of convenience for the person, allowing them to act when it’s best for them.
Scenario Example: “Please send the documents at a moment that’s convenient for you.”
Best Use: Scheduling, non-urgent professional or personal requests.
Tone: Polite, flexible.
28. Whenever You’re in the Position
Meaning: When you are able or ready to take action.
Definition: A considerate way to indicate that the task can be done when the other person feels prepared or capable.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase provides flexibility, recognizing that the other person might need time or space before responding or acting.
Scenario Example: “Please get back to me whenever you’re in the position to do so.”
Best Use: When offering flexibility, particularly in situations where the person may be under pressure or busy.
Tone: Respectful, patient.
29. When You’re Not Too Busy
Meaning: When the person has some spare time and is not preoccupied.
Definition: A polite expression acknowledging that the person might be busy and offering them the flexibility to respond or act when they are less occupied.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is particularly useful in casual or semi-formal communication, showing an understanding of the person’s time constraints.
Scenario Example: “Let me know when you’re not too busy to chat.”
Best Use: Casual settings or when scheduling a low-priority task.
Tone: Casual, understanding.
30. When You’re Able to Make Time
Meaning: When you can set aside time for the task or request.
Definition: Focuses on the other person’s ability to allocate time for the task at hand.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase shows patience and respect, acknowledging that the person might have other priorities.
Scenario Example: “Please respond when you’re able to make time for this.”
Best Use: Professional or informal settings when flexibility is necessary.
Tone: Polite, patient.
Conclusion
Choosing the right words to convey “at your convenience” is not only about flexibility but also about creating a connection. Whether you’re writing an email, setting a meeting, or making a casual request, the alternatives listed above will help you communicate in a way that is respectful, thoughtful, and empathetic.
By using these alternatives, you can tailor your communication to the specific context and relationship, making your message more personal and considerate.
