Italian Phrase
Aspetta ancora qualche minuto, per favore.
Meaning
This sentence politely asks someone to wait a few more minutes. It combines a direct command (imperative) with the adverb ‘ancora’ and the polite phrase ‘per favore’, making the request courteous yet clear.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need a short extension of waiting time—e.g., while you finish a phone call, prepare a document, or finish cooking. It works in both informal and semi‑formal settings, as long as you keep a friendly tone.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Aspettaancoraqualcheminutoperfavore
Imperative (tu) – Aspetta
‘Aspetta’ is the second‑person singular imperative of the verb *aspettare* (to wait). It is used for direct commands or polite requests.
Adverb – ancora
‘Ancora’ means ‘still’ or ‘a little more’. Placed after the verb, it modifies the request to indicate an additional short period.
Indefinite adjective – qualche
‘Qualche’ is an indefinite adjective that must be followed by a singular noun (minuto) even though it means ‘some’ or ‘a few’.
Noun – minuto
‘Minuto’ is a masculine singular noun meaning ‘minute’. In this phrase it denotes a short amount of time.
Polite formula – per favore
‘Per favore’ literally means ‘for favor’ and is the standard way to soften a request, making it courteous.
🗨In Conversation
Aspetta ancora qualche minuto, per favore.
Please wait a few more minutes.
Certo, nessun problema!
Sure, no problem!
✕Common Mistakes
Aspetta ancora qualche minuti, per favore.
‘Qualche’ always takes a singular noun; use ‘minuto’, not ‘minuti’.
Aspetta ancora qualche minuto, per piacere.
‘Per piacere’ is a regionalism and can sound overly informal; stick with ‘per favore’.
Aspetta ancora qualche minuto per favore.
Missing the comma can make the sentence sound rushed; the pause before ‘per favore’ signals politeness.
↔Alternatives
Aspetta ancora un attimo, per favore.
Please wait a moment longer.
Puoi aspettare ancora qualche minuto?
Can you wait a few more minutes?
Ti va di attendere ancora un po'?
Would you mind waiting a little longer?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, adding ‘per favore’ is essential for politeness, especially with strangers or in professional contexts. Native speakers often replace ‘minuto’ with ‘attimo’ for an even more casual feel. Keep your tone friendly and maintain eye contact; a smile reinforces the courteous intent.