Actually English speakers hardly ever say ‘wait please’. We’re more likely to say ‘wait a minute’, ‘wait a moment’ or something else entirely.
More formally – if you’re making a business call or dealing with a customer:
- Just a moment, please
- Please wait a moment.
- Would you mind waiting a moment?
- Please hold (only used on the phone)
- Please wait (only used in writing)
Less formal – with friends and family
- Just a sec / Just a second.
- Wait a sec/ wait a second.
- Wait a minute
- Hold your horses
- Hold on
- Hang on
Wait! used by itself, sounds very strong and direct, and will make you sound angry or impatient. Or as if you’re talking to a dog.
When you ask someone to wait, what do you say?
