Portuguese Phrase
Só um segundo.
Meaning
Literally ‘just one second’, this phrase is used to ask someone to wait briefly. It conveys a short, polite pause in conversation.
When to use
Use it in informal or semi‑formal settings when you need a moment before continuing—e.g., while looking something up, grabbing a drink, or finishing a thought.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sóumsegundo
Só (adverb)
‘Só’ means ‘only’ or ‘just’ and is used as an adverb before nouns or verbs to limit meaning.
um (indefinite article)
‘um’ is the masculine singular indefinite article, equivalent to ‘a’ or ‘one’ in English.
segundo (noun)
‘segundo’ is a masculine noun meaning ‘second’ (unit of time).
🗨In Conversation
Só um segundo.
Just a second.
Claro, pode demorar.
Sure, take your time.
✕Common Mistakes
So um segundo.
Missing accent on ‘Só’; without the accent it means ‘so’ (as in ‘therefore’).
Só um segundos.
‘Segundo’ stays singular because the quantity is expressed by ‘um’. Using the plural is redundant.
Só um segundo.
When speaking formally, add ‘por favor’ to avoid sounding too casual.
↔Alternatives
Um momento.
One moment.
Um instante.
An instant.
Aguenta aí.
Hold on a sec.
Um pouquinho.
Just a little bit.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, ‘Só um segundo’ is a very common, friendly way to ask for a brief pause. It’s informal but polite. In Portugal you’ll hear ‘Um segundo, por favor’ more often, adding ‘por favor’ for extra courtesy.