Wait a minute.

Meaning: Stay in one place for a short period of time, usually 60 seconds. It's like saying, Please remain still for a short while.

Choice of Words: Wait is a verb that means to stay in one place until something happens. A is an indefinite article that means one or any. Minute is a unit of time equal to 60 seconds. When put together, "Wait a minute" means to stay in one place for a short period of time, usually 60 seconds.

Alternative Expressions

Hold on a sec.

Meaning: This means to ask someone to wait for a short amount of time. It's like saying, Please wait for a little while.

Choice of Words: Hold means to keep something in place or prevent it from moving. On means in a position or state of contact with something. A is used before words that start with consonants. Sec is a short form of the word "second", which is a unit of time. When you put them together, "Hold on a sec" is a more casual way of asking someone to wait a short amount of time.

Gimme a break.

Meaning: This means to ask someone to stop what they are doing and listen to you. It's like saying, Please stop what you're doing and pay attention to me.

Choice of Words: Gimme is a slang word that means "give me". A is used before words that start with consonants. Break means a short rest or pause. When you put them together, "Gimme a break" is a more forceful way of asking someone to stop what they are doing and pay attention to you.

Related Expressions