Meaning
Used to politely ask someone to wait briefly.
Cultural Background
Very common in shops and cafes. Often used with a smile to be extra polite. Used frequently in business. Often used with 'regáleme' (give me).
Smile
Always smile when saying this to ensure it sounds polite.
Don't over-use
Don't say it too many times in one conversation.
Meaning
Used to politely ask someone to wait briefly.
Smile
Always smile when saying this to ensure it sounds polite.
Don't over-use
Don't say it too many times in one conversation.
Use 'Un segundito'
Use this for a very friendly, informal vibe.
Context matters
In Spain, it's very common in bars.
Test Yourself
Complete the phrase.
____ momento, por favor.
'Momento' is masculine.
Which is the most polite?
How do you ask someone to wait?
It is the standard polite form.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Un momento, por favor.
It is used to request a brief delay.
Finish the dialogue.
A: ¿Puedes ayudarme? B: ____.
It acknowledges the request.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises____ momento, por favor.
'Momento' is masculine.
How do you ask someone to wait?
It is the standard polite form.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
It is used to request a brief delay.
A: ¿Puedes ayudarme? B: ____.
It acknowledges the request.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, it is perfectly polite and professional.
Yes, it can sound impatient. Always add 'por favor'.
No, the phrase is gender-neutral.
It's better to use 'Por favor, espere un momento' in writing.
Use 'Espera un rato' instead.
Yes, it is universally understood.
It's a soft tap, not a hard English 'r'.
No, 'por favor' is the standard polite request.
It is neutral and polite.
You don't pluralize it; it's a fixed phrase.
Yes, but 'Un segundito' is more natural.
It is one of the most common phrases in Spanish.
Related Phrases
Un segundo
synonymOne second
Espera un poco
similarWait a little
Ya te atiendo
builds onI'll attend to you now
Un momentito
specialized formA tiny moment
