in a minute

/ɪn ə ˈmɪnət/
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Very soon, after a short wait.

Examples

  • I will be with you in a minute.
  • Dinner will be ready in a minute.
  • Can you help me? Yes, in a minute.
  • She said she would call back in a minute.
  • The bus should arrive in a minute.

Similar words

shortly
in a moment
very soon

Meanings

Very soon

time
neutral
After a short time, often said in response to someone asking for action or attention.

Examples

  • I will be with you in a minute.
  • The bus should arrive in a minute.
  • Can you help me? Yes, in a minute.
  • Dinner will be ready in a minute.
  • She said she would call back in a minute.

Similar words

Etymology

Minute is a short unit of time. In this phrase it often names an approximate short wait rather than exactly sixty seconds.

FAQ

What does in a minute mean?

It usually means very soon, after a short wait.

When is in a minute used?

It is often said when someone asks for help or when an event is expected shortly.

How is in a minute different from in one minute?

In a minute can be approximate. In one minute more strongly suggests sixty seconds.

How is in a minute used in a sentence?

It commonly follows a verb, as in “I will call you in a minute”.

Is in a minute formal?

It is a neutral, familiar expression in everyday conversation.

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