just a minute
1. A short amount of time. Though the actual amount of time can vary, the phrase usually refers to a few minutes. Your order will be ready in just a minute, sir. I'll need just a minute to change when we get home, and then we can go right back out.
2. interjection A request for someone to wait a short amount of time. Just a minute! I'll open the door as soon as I get dressed. OK, I just need to print out your receipt. Just a minute, please.
3. interjection Used to indicate one's desire to address something with which one disagrees or is dissatisfied. Now, just a minute! I did nothing wrong, and I won't stand to hear such nasty accusations! A: "So, Bill and Mary, you two will be in the front dealing with customers. Tom, I'll need you to haul the cases from the delivery truck into the warehouse." B: "Hey, just a minute—why do those two get such a cushy job while I get stuck with the heavy lifting?"
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
just a minute
only a short time; [wait] a short period of time. I'm almost done. I'll be there in just a minute! Could I have just a minute of your time?
Just a minute (you)!
Stop where you are! (Not very polite.) Just a minute, you! Where are you going with my coat?
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
just a minute
Also, just a moment.
1. Wait a little bit. This expression is used before explaining oneself, as in
Just a minute, I didn't mean that he was wrong, or to stop someone from something, as in
Just a moment, I was here first. Also see
hold everything.
2. Only a very short time, as in I'll be with you in just a minute.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.