the implication of "only so much

[optimistic pessimist]

Dear all,

If I say to you, "I'd like to help you, but I only have so much time", does that imply I only have a little time to help you"?

Thank you!

OP

 

[emsr2d2]

It doesn't necessarily mean "a little" although that is the most common use. It just means that you want the listener to realise that you have a limit to the time available and after that you will be unable to help them further due to other responsibilities/arrangements/calls on your time.

 

[herbiji]

Dear all,

If I say to you, "I'd like to help you, but I only have so much time", does that imply I only have a little time to help you"?

Thank you!

OP

Dear teachers
Does " but I only have so much time" mean that I am busy with many other things?
so I will be able to help you unless I have been called for another duty/ arrangements...etc.

 

[Barb_D]

Dear teachers
Does " but I only have so much time" mean that I am busy with many other things?
so I will be able to help you unless I have been called for another duty/ arrangements...etc.

I can't say it better than ems did:

you have a limit to the time available and after that you will be unable to help them further

You may not be busy at all right now, but in two hours, you have an obligation. "I only have so much time" in that case would mean "I have these two hours to give you. After that, I'm done."