Just a minute, just hang on, just wait. What does that mean? We use those expressions all the time. Am I supposed to time you for a minute? What am I hanging on to? What am I supposed to wait for? I think we take language for granted.
Is the "just a minute" said in frustration or to gain time to finish whatever you are doing? Is there a good reason for making the other person wait?
When you say "just hang on" is it because you are trying to save someone? Is it said in annoyance? What is the other person supposed to hang onto? Are they hanging on to a tree limb so as not to fall?
Then there is "just wait" usually said in the early stages of anger or frustration. Just wait until dinner is ready. Just wait until your father gets home. Or just wait until Mom finds out.
Sometimes you need to think about what you say to others and how it's perceived.
TTFN
you bring up interesting points there. just right!
ReplyDeleteNutschell
www.thewritingnut.com
Dropping by from the A-Z!
does sound kinda off-putting--great point!
ReplyDeleteJust a minute is used for my hubby who thinks he needs attention right away. It's a way of saying that what I'm doing is important too.
ReplyDeleteI never thought about it like this. Good point! Thanks so much for visiting my blog today and for following
ReplyDeleteThat word can be truly amazing. This is a fun post. Good point! Glad I found you through the challenge. I'm a new follower :)
ReplyDeleteThis is something to think about. You are SO right- we often use the word/phrase with careless abandon...
ReplyDeleteI think the meaning will be conveyed via the tone of voice/facial expression that accompanies the phrase: "just hold on"... it could be impatience, frustration or even a threat!
Great post!
There's also "Just you waaaaaiit!" said in a threatening tone ;)
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