wait a second

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wait a second" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to ask for a short pause while you think of something, wait for the other person to finish speaking, or to ask someone to reconsider something. For example: Wait a second, why did you make that decision?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Wait — wait a second.

The New York Times

"Wait a second, wait a second," she said.

The New Yorker

Like: 'Wait a second!

Independent

Wait a second, I thought.

The New Yorker

Wait a second," Lisi said.

The New Yorker

P.B.B.: Wait a second.

The New York Times

[13] ERROL MORRIS: So, wait a second.

The New York Times

Oh, wait a second, what's this?

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

But wait a second why?

Forbes

Unless…Wait a second.

The New York Times

But wait a second, isn't he?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wait a second" to politely interrupt or request a pause in a conversation or process.

Common error

While "wait a second" is acceptable in many situations, avoid using it excessively in formal presentations or written communication. Opt for more professional alternatives like "please allow me a moment" or "let's take a brief pause".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wait a second" primarily functions as an interjection or imperative phrase, used to interrupt or request a brief pause. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English and is employed to ask for a short pause to think or for someone to finish speaking.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the expression "wait a second" is a very common and generally correct idiomatic phrase used to request a brief pause or interruption. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate in many situations, particularly in News & Media, as well as in informal settings. While grammatically sound, it's best to use more formal alternatives like "just a moment" in professional contexts. The phrase serves various functions, from seeking time to think to expressing mild disagreement. Overall, "wait a second" is a versatile phrase, but context-awareness is crucial for its most effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold on a moment

Similar request for a brief pause, slightly more informal.

just a moment

Polite request for a short delay.

hang on a second

Informal request for a brief pause.

give me a second

Direct request for a short amount of time.

let me think

Indicates a need for time to consider something.

hold your horses

Idiomatic expression to ask someone to slow down or reconsider.

bear with me

Request for patience while resolving something.

not so fast

Exclamation to urge caution or reconsideration.

one moment please

Formal request for a short delay.

let's reconsider

Direct suggestion to re-evaluate a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "wait a second" in a sentence?

You can use "wait a second" to ask someone to pause, like in "Wait a second, I need to grab my keys". It's a common way to politely interrupt or request a brief delay.

What's a more formal way to say "wait a second"?

For more formal situations, consider using phrases like "just a moment" or "please allow me a moment". These options sound more professional in business or academic settings.

Is it okay to use "wait a sec" instead of "wait a second"?

While "wait a sec" is shorter and more casual, it may not be appropriate in all situations. "Wait a second" is a safer choice when you want to maintain a slightly more formal tone.

What's the difference between "wait a second" and "hold on a second"?

The phrases "wait a second" and "hold on a second" are very similar and often interchangeable. Both are used to ask someone to pause briefly, but "hold on a second" might imply a slightly longer delay or a need to physically hold something.