Translation guide
The English phrase 'just a minute' is used in two main ways: to ask someone to wait for a short time, or to express that something will take only a short amount of time. Japanese has different expressions for these uses, and the appropriate choice depends on politeness level and context.
You want someone to wait for a short time, often to pause a conversation or activity.
Casual and very common. Used with friends, family, or people of equal or lower status. Literally 'wait a little'.
ちょっと待って、今行くから。
Just a minute, I'm coming now.
Polite version of 'ちょっと待って'. Use with strangers, superiors, or in service situations.
You want to indicate that an action or task will be completed very soon, often to reassure someone.
Common and natural way to say 'it'll be done in a minute'. Literally 'finish soon'.
この作業、すぐ終わるよ。
This task will be done in just a minute.
The English phrase 'just a minute' is not directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Using 'ただの一分' (tada no ippun) would be unnatural. Instead, use the phrases above depending on whether you're asking someone to wait or stating that something will be quick.
ちょっと待って is casual and used with friends. ちょっと待ってください is polite and safe for most situations. 少々お待ちください is very formal and best for business or customer service. Using the wrong level can sound rude or overly stiff.
ちょっと待ってください。すぐ確認します。
Just a minute, please. I'll check right away.
Very polite and formal. Often used in business or customer service settings. Literally 'please wait a little'.
少々お待ちください。担当者をお呼びします。
Just a moment, please. I'll call the person in charge.
Very casual interjection meaning 'just a sec' or 'hold on'. Often used alone to pause someone.
ちょっと、それ本当？
Wait a minute, is that true?
Means 'can do it right away' or 'it'll only take a moment'. Emphasizes ease and speed.
ちょっと待って、すぐできるから。
Just a minute, I can do it quickly.
Idiomatic expression meaning 'in the blink of an eye' or 'before you know it'. Used to say something will be over very quickly.
あっという間に終わるよ。
It'll be over in just a minute.
Literally 'won't even take a minute'. More emphatic and specific about the short duration.
この設定は一分もかからないよ。
This setup won't take even a minute.