Warte mal
The German phrase for "wait a minute" is Warte mal.
Warte mal is used as an informal request to have someone wait. You can make the phrase sound more natural and less abrupt by adding kurz to the end, as in Warte mal kurz, which means "Wait a second" or "Wait a moment".
Meaning: Translations (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word mal literally means "once", but in this context, it functions as a modal particle used to soften the command.
Which one should you use?
While Warte mal is a direct command for a person to wait, the expression Moment mal is used differently. It is an idiomatic way to express a sudden realization or to interrupt a thought.
How does it change in a sentence?
Warte mal is the imperative singular form used when addressing one person informally. If you are addressing more than one person informally, you must use Wartet mal instead.
Did you know?
- If a German speaker says Warte mal with a rising intonation at the end, they are often not asking you to wait at all but are instead expressing sudden confusion or disbelief.
- The word Warte shares the same ancient root as the English word 'warden'. Both come from a Proto-Germanic term meaning to watch over or guard something.
- In very formal settings, such as a business meeting or a court, the informal Warte mal is replaced by Einen Moment bitte. Using the informal version here could be seen as a sign of disrespect.
Examples in context
- Warte mal kurz! Irgendwas stimmt nicht.Wait a minute. Something's not right.This sentence shows how to use Warte mal when something seems wrong.Tatoeba #2841083 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2840729 by CK
- Moment, warte mal kurz! Ich verstehe das nicht.Hang on, wait a minute – I don't understand.This sentence shows how to use Warte mal when you do not understand something.Tatoeba #2460497 by al_ex_an_der, translation #12256221 by sundown
- Einen Moment bitte, ich überlege gerade.One moment please, I'm thinking.
- Warte mal, ich möchte darüber nachdenken.Wait a moment, I want to think about it.
- Warte mal, ich habe meinen Schlüssel vergessen.Wait a minute, I forgot my key.
Example conversation
Julia is about to leave the house, but Felix realizes something is wrong.
- FelixWarte mal, Julia!Wait a minute, Julia!
- JuliaWas ist denn los, Felix?What is wrong, Felix?
- FelixDu hast dein Handy vergessen.You forgot your phone.
- JuliaOh, danke!Oh, thanks!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Warte, mal, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
