Language Research

wait · verb I

/weɪt/Full view

wait (STAY)

A1 to stay in a place until someone or something arrives, or until someone or something is ready for you

Dictionary examples:

I waited for her in the corridor while she went in to see the doctor.

There were a lot of people waiting to use the telephone.

Learner example:

I don't like [the] college break time[s], because I must wait 15 minutes. (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; French)

keep sb waiting

B1 to be late so that someone has to wait for you

Dictionary examples:

I'm sorry to have kept you waiting.

The dentist kept me waiting for ages.

Learner example:

I'm sorry for keep[ing] you waiting. (First Certificate in English; B2; Greek)

can't wait

A2 used to say how excited you are about something that you are going to do

Dictionary example:

I can't wait to see him.

Learner example:

I can't wait to see you! (Key English Test; A2; Chinese)

wait a minute/moment

B1 said in order to interrupt someone, or to get their attention or when you have suddenly thought of something important

Dictionary examples:

Now, wait a moment - I don't agree with that.

Wait a minute - I've just had an idea.

Learner example:

Oh! Wait a minute... (First Certificate in English; B2; Portuguese)

wait and see

C1 to wait to discover what will happen

Dictionary example:

We'll wait and see what she says.

Learner example:

We will just have to wait and see..... (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Portuguese)

wait (NOT DO SOMETHING)

C1 to not do something until something else happens

Dictionary example:

We'll wait till Jane gets here before we start eating.

Learner example:

The wedding will be at midday, but bec[a]use Spanish [people] are the most unpunctual people in the world, maybe we'll have to wait until half past twelve to start the ceremony. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Spanish)

wait · noun no plural

/weɪt/

wait

B2 when you stay in one place until someone or something arrives, or someone or something is ready for you

Dictionary examples:

a long wait

well worth the wait

We had a three-hour wait before we could see the doctor.

The long wait for the doctor/to see the doctor really made me anxious.