available

When something is available, you can get it or you can have access to it:

• Books are available for you to use at a library.
• A good education is available at public schools.
• John needs to get to the airport. Is there a cab available?
• There aren’t any offices available for rent in the building. They’ve all been rented.
• The bathrooms on this floor are unavailable because they’re being renovated.
• I need to see the doctor. Are there any appointments available for this afternoon?

A person can also be available:

• The doctor is available after 2 p.m. this afternoon.
• Our teacher is available to speak with students after class is over.
• U.S. military forces are available around the clock.
• Emergency services are available 24/7.
• Mr. Johnson isn’t available right now. You’ll have to leave a message on his voicemail.
• When are you available today?

The word "availability" is a noun:

• The availability of some natural resources is limited.
• Let me check my availability for that day.
• Whether or not she can make the meeting depends on her availability.

Is she available today?

Note: Sometimes the word "available" is used to describe a person who is not currently in a romantic relationship. If a man or a woman is available, he or she does not have a wife or a husband, a girlfriend or a boyfriend.

• A: Tony thinks Denise is hot.
• B: Really? She’s available. He should give her a call.

Click here to learn more words.

March 19, 2013