wait some time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wait some time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used as an imperative phrase to mean "to wait for a period of time before doing something else." For example: "Wait some time before deciding whether or not to make a purchase."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Ah's willin' to wait, an' to wait some time, but Ah gotta git you.

The New Yorker

"A lot of creditors will agree to wait some time; they've already waited for a while".

The Guardian - Business

As it stands, we may wait some time to see them contest a title again.

The Guardian - Sport

Lower-priority jobs, and jobs requiring access to resources not currently available, may wait some time before starting to run.

Stanford University

"I guess we'll have to wait some time for that… though I'm sure it will happen one day.

Independent

On the way they run out of gas, and have to wait some time to be rescued.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

We may be waiting some time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Indeed, the author has waited some time for official recognition.

The Economist

After waiting some time I learned the flight was overbooked.

The Guardian - Money

I waited some time past the time until the train whistled on the track.

The Guardian - Books

I sent it off and waited some time and - well, nothing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "wait some time", clearly indicate the reason for the delay or the expected outcome to provide context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "wait some time" without specifying or implying the duration of the wait, as it can leave the reader uncertain about the expected delay. Providing an estimated timeframe enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wait some time" functions as an imperative or declarative phrase used to advise or state the necessity of delaying an action. Ludwig indicates this usage is grammatically correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wait some time" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that advises patience or acknowledges a period of delay. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is versatile, fitting into various contexts, particularly within news, academic, and scientific domains. While its specific duration is undefined, clarity can be enhanced by providing additional information about the delay's reason or expected timeframe. Consider alternatives like "delay action" or "hold off for a while" based on the desired tone and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give it a moment

This alternative is informal and suggests a short, unspecified time.

hold off for a while

This alternative is more informal and suggests a temporary suspension.

pause temporarily

This alternative focuses on a temporary interruption.

delay action

This alternative is more concise and emphasizes postponing action.

allow a waiting period

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the existence of a required waiting duration.

postpone briefly

This alternative emphasizes a short period of postponement.

exercise patience

This alternative focuses on the act of being patient during a delay.

defer momentarily

This alternative is more formal and suggests a very short delay.

take a breather

This alternative is idiomatic and suggests a pause for rest or consideration.

remain in abeyance

This alternative suggests a state of temporary inactivity or suspension.

FAQs

How can I use "wait some time" in a sentence?

You can use "wait some time" to indicate a period of delay before an action or event. For example, "We may have to "wait some time" before the results are announced".

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

For a more formal tone, consider using "allow a waiting period" or "defer momentarily", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "wait some time" or "wait a while"?

"Wait some time" and "wait a while" are generally interchangeable and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on personal preference and the desired tone.

What does "wait some time" imply about the duration of the wait?

"Wait some time" suggests a non-specific but noticeable period of waiting. It implies more than just a few seconds, but not necessarily an extended or indefinite delay. A more specific phrase, such as "delay action", may be needed if the delay needs emphasis.