Whether you’re organizing a formal event or casually reminding someone of a date, saying “mark your calendars” can feel a bit worn out. Luckily, the English language offers a wide range of expressions to freshen up your reminders without losing their clarity or intent. Here’s a carefully curated list of alternative phrases that can help you sound more thoughtful, professional, or simply more engaging.
Why People Say “Mark Your Calendars”
The phrase “mark your calendars” is commonly used to prompt someone to note an upcoming date or event. It’s a straightforward way to say, “This is important, don’t forget.” While effective, it can also feel overused or impersonal, especially in more formal or creative communication.
Pros and Cons of Using “Mark Your Calendars”
Advantages:
- It’s clear and universally understood.
- It encourages action without much explanation.
Disadvantages:
- Can sound overly casual or generic.
- Lacks personality or emotional tone.
- May not be suitable for all audiences or settings.
20 Creative Ways to Say “Mark Your Calendars”
1. Save the Date
Perfect for formal occasions like weddings or business events that need early notice.
Example: “Save the date for our annual conference on October 18.”
2. Put It On Your Radar
A friendly, modern way to casually notify someone about something upcoming.
Example: “Put it on your radar: the product launch is next Monday.”
3. Set a Reminder
Ideal for digital contexts or productivity-focused communication.
Example: “Set a reminder for the team check-in at 10 a.m. on Friday.”
4. Circle the Date
Adds a bit of charm while urging someone to make note of something important.
Example: “Circle the date—our big event is on April 15.”
5. Make a Note
Simple and direct, it works well for both personal and professional use.
Example: “Make a note: the quarterly report is due next Wednesday.”
6. Block Off Your Calendar
Common in business settings where attendance is critical.
Example: “Please block off your calendar from 1–3 p.m. for the strategy session.”
7. Keep This Date Free
A polite and flexible way to request someone’s availability.
Example: “Keep this date free—there’s something special planned.”
8. Save This Date
Very similar to “Save the Date,” but can sound more casual.
Example: “Save this date: November 7 for our community event.”
9. Keep In Mind
Good for informal settings or when you’re not asking for a hard commitment.
Example: “Keep in mind, the final deadline is next Friday.”
10. Don’t Forget
Short and to the point. Great when urgency matters.
Example: “Don’t forget our meeting at 9 a.m. tomorrow.”
11. Save the Time
Useful when the time slot matters just as much as the date.
Example: “Save the time—our webinar starts at 2 p.m. sharp.”
12. Block Your Time
More direct, often used in professional contexts.
Example: “Please block your time from 10 to 11 a.m. for the demo.”
13. Put a Pin in It
Suggests noting something temporarily or revisiting it later.
Example: “Let’s put a pin in it and return to the topic next week.”
14. Mark the Day
A compelling alternative for highlighting special occasions.
Example: “Mark the day—our company anniversary is on June 1.”
15. Keep It in Mind
Gentler than a direct reminder, ideal for early notifications.
Example: “Keep it in mind, our office will be closed on Monday.”
16. Set It in Stone
Communicates certainty and importance.
Example: “The event is set in stone for May 12.”
17. Jot It Down
Works great for informal and quick reminders.
Example: “Jot it down: we have a team lunch on Friday.”
18. Don’t Miss It
Strongly encourages someone not to skip or overlook something.
Example: “Don’t miss it—the clearance sale ends this weekend.”
19. Clear Your Schedule
Implies the event is important enough to rearrange other plans.
Example: “Clear your schedule for the leadership summit on Thursday.”
20. Put It On Your To-Do List
Excellent for task-oriented reminders.
Example: “Put it on your to-do list: submit the proposal by 5 p.m.”
Final Thoughts
The way you remind someone about an event can shape how they perceive its importance. Swapping out “mark your calendars” for a more tailored or expressive phrase can elevate your communication, whether you’re planning a corporate meeting or a weekend brunch. Choose the phrase that best matches your tone, audience, and purpose, and your message will be all the more effective for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When should I use “Save the Date” instead of “Mark Your Calendars”?
Use “Save the Date” for formal occasions like weddings or corporate events that need advance notice.
Q2: Is “Put It On Your Radar” too casual for workplace emails?
Not necessarily—it works well in casual or friendly professional settings, especially for preliminary notifications.
Q3: Can “Set It in Stone” be used for tentative events?
No, “Set It in Stone” indicates a finalized date. Avoid using it for plans that might change.
Q4: What’s a polite way to remind a colleague about a meeting?
Try “Please block off your calendar” or “Keep this date free” for a courteous and professional tone.
Q5: How do I remind someone about an important deadline casually?
Phrases like “Jot it down” or “Don’t forget” work well for informal reminders.
