Wait: meaning, definitions and examples
⏳
wait
[ weɪt ]
in a conversation
Stay where one is or delay action until a particular time or until something else happens.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
wait |
Used in everyday situations where one needs to stay somewhere or do nothing until something happens. It is the most general term.
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await |
Used in more formal contexts, often implying an expectation. It is commonly followed by an event or a result.
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linger |
Used when someone stays in a place longer than necessary, often because they are reluctant to leave. It may imply a certain hesitance or reluctance.
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delay |
Used when there is an intentional or unavoidable postponement of an event or action. Often has a negative connotation, implying inconvenience.
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pause |
Used when there is a temporary stop or break in an activity or conversation. It implies a short, intentional halt.
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Examples of usage
- Sorry to keep you waiting
- I'll wait for you at the cafe
Translations
Translations of the word "wait" in other languages:
🇵🇹 esperar
🇮🇳 इंतज़ार करना
🇩🇪 warten
🇮🇩 menunggu
🇺🇦 чекати
🇵🇱 czekać
🇯🇵 待つ (matsu)
🇫🇷 attendre
🇪🇸 esperar
🇹🇷 beklemek
🇰🇷 기다리다 (gidalida)
🇸🇦 انتظار (intidār)
🇨🇿 čekat
🇸🇰 čakať
🇨🇳 等待 (děngdài)
🇸🇮 čakati
🇮🇸 bíða
🇰🇿 күту
🇬🇪 ელოდება (elodeba)
🇦🇿 gözləmək
🇲🇽 esperar
Etymology
The word 'wait' originated from the Old North French word 'waite', meaning 'watchman, sentinel'. Over time, it evolved to signify staying in one place or delaying action. Waiting has been a common human experience throughout history, often associated with patience and anticipation.