Wait
Use this formal version of 'wait' when speaking to someone you don't know, an older person, or in a professional setting (the 'usted' form).
Means 'One moment.' A very common and polite way to ask someone to wait, suitable for most situations.
Means 'One second.' A slightly more informal version of 'Un momento,' used frequently among friends.
A very informal command, like 'Hold on' or 'Hang on.' Use this with close friends and family.
Wait, please. I need my passport.
Sir, wait here. The manager is coming now.
One moment, I'm on the phone.
Hold on! I forgot the car keys.
'Espera' (informal 'tú'), 'Espere' (formal 'usted'), and 'Un momento' are universally understood and used.
The command form for 'vos' is 'Esperá,' with the stress on the final 'a'. A very common informal alternative is 'Bancá' (from the verb 'bancar'), which means 'Hold on' or 'Hang in there.'
'Aguanta' is extremely common in casual conversation. You may also hear 'Aguanta tantito,' meaning 'Hold on just a little bit.'
The diminutive is often used, making 'Un momentico' a very common and friendly way to ask someone to wait.
While 'Espera' is standard for 'tú,' the plural informal command is 'Esperad,' used for the 'vosotros' form. 'Un momento' is also extremely common.
Saying 'Esperar' instead of 'Espera.' — 'Esperar' is the infinitive verb ('to wait'). When giving a command, you must use the conjugated form, 'Espera' (for 'tú') or 'Espere' (for 'usted').
Using 'Espera' in a formal situation. — Using the informal 'Espera' with a stranger, an elder, or a boss can sound disrespectful. Always use the formal 'Espere' in these contexts to show respect.
Confusing 'esperar' with 'atender'. — In English, a waiter 'waits on' a table. In Spanish, the verb for this is 'atender'. 'Esperar' only means to wait for time to pass or for someone/something to arrive.
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