Translation guide
The English verb 'wait' can be expressed in Japanese through several verbs and phrases depending on what you are waiting for, the level of formality, and the nuance of anticipation or patience.
To stay in place or delay action until something happens or someone arrives.
The most common and general verb for 'wait'. Can be used for people, events, and things.
ここで待ってください。
Please wait here.
I'm waiting for the bus.
Polite expression used in service contexts, announcements, or formal requests.
Please wait a moment.
Casual way to say 'wait a sec'. Used among friends or in informal situations.
Wait a sec, I'm coming.
To look forward to something eagerly.
To wait for someone to arrive or to meet them.
To wait in a queue or for one's turn.
To wait passively, often with a sense of killing time.
To wait on tables or serve customers.
The English phrase 'wait on' meaning to serve (e.g., wait on tables) is not translated with 待つ. Use 給仕する or 接客する instead.
He is waiting for a table. (NOT 'He is waiting on tables.')
In casual conversation, Japanese often omits the subject and even the verb if context is clear. For example, just saying 'ちょっと待って' (Wait a sec) is more natural than '私は待っています'.
To arrange to meet someone at a specific time and place. Implies a planned meeting.
Let's meet at the station.