You need a few seconds: to finish a text, find a file or check with someone. The right phrase depends on who's waiting and how long.
Way 1 · best default
Polite and quick. Works with friends, customers and strangers.
Examples
Just a moment, I'll check if we have it in a medium.
Just a moment, let me find my card.
In a conversation
A: Do you have this in blue?
B: Just a moment, I'll have a look in the back.
Way 2 · quick and casual
Very short and relaxed. For friends, family and quick texts.
Examples
One sec, I'm just paying for the coffee.
Yeah, I'm free. One sec, let me finish this email.
Way 3 · stop for me
Wait for me, or stop for a second. Friendly, and sometimes a bit urgent.
Examples
Hang on, I'm coming with you!
Hang on a minute, I think I left my keys inside.
In a conversation
A: Right, see you downstairs.
B: Hang on, I'll walk down with you.
Common mistake
Not: Wait me, I'm coming!
Say: Hang on, I'm coming!
"Wait" needs "for": "Wait for me!" Or skip it and say "Hang on!"
Way 4 · thinking pause
You need a second to think or remember before you answer.
Examples
Let me see… I think we moved here in 2019.
What time's the film? Let me see, it starts at half seven.
Way 5 · sorry it's slow
Please be patient with me. Good when something is slow or not working.
Examples
Bear with me, the card machine's being a bit slow today.
Sorry, bear with me. I can't find the right slide.
In a conversation
A: Is it working now?
B: Nearly. Bear with me, it's still loading.
Way 6 · on the phone
The formal phone phrase. You ask the caller to stay on the line.
Examples
Please hold while I put you through.
Thank you, please hold. I'll just check with my manager.
Read the moment, then choose the way that fits it best.
Pick one and practise it in a real conversation. Save the ones you want to remember.
