Italian Phrase
Aspetta un attimo.
Meaning
Literally ‘wait a moment’, this phrase is a quick, informal request for someone to pause briefly. It can be softened with per favore or made more urgent with a tone shift.
When to use
Use it when you need a short pause in conversation, on the phone, or while someone is speaking. It’s perfect for everyday situations with friends, colleagues, or anyone you address informally.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Aspettaunattimo
Imperative (2nd person singular)
Aspetta is the informal imperative of aspettare, used when speaking to a friend, peer, or anyone you address with tu.
Indefinite article (un)
Un is the masculine singular indefinite article; it matches the masculine noun attimo.
Noun gender (attimo)
Attimo is a masculine noun meaning ‘moment’; it does not change in the plural (attimi).
🗨In Conversation
Aspetta un attimo, per favore.
Wait a moment, please.
Certo, ti aspetto.
Sure, I’ll wait for you.
✕Common Mistakes
Attendi un attimo.
Attendi is the infinitive form; the correct imperative is Aspetta (informal) or Attenda (formal).
Aspetta una attimo.
Attimo is masculine, so the article must be un, not una.
Aspetta un attimo, per favore.
When speaking formally, replace Aspetta with Attenda.
↔Alternatives
Un attimo, per favore.
One moment, please.
Aspetta un momento.
Wait a moment.
Dammi un attimo.
Give me a moment.
Attenda un attimo.
Wait a moment (formal).
Cultural Tip
In Italian, politeness is often expressed by adding per favore or using the formal imperative (Attenda) when speaking to strangers, elders, or in professional settings. Dropping the polite particle can sound abrupt, so gauge the relationship before using the plain imperative.