Synonyms for Wait

Closest Synonyms for Wait

pause

To stop briefly before continuing, as in pause to let the rain start.

delay

To make something happen later than planned, as in delay the meeting until tomorrow.

tarry

To stay in one place for a time, often unnecessarily, as in tarry at the hotel.

linger

To stay longer than necessary, as in linger in the park after dark.

halt

To stop movement completely, as in halt the car at the red light.

detain

To keep someone from leaving, as in detain the visitor until work ends.

procrastinate

To delay doing something important, as in procrastinate on the homework assignment.

stand by

To remain ready and patient, as in stand by for the next instruction.

hold

To keep someone or something in place, as in hold the line for a moment.

endure

To suffer patiently over time, as in endure the long flight without sleep.

bide

To wait patiently for something, as in bide time during the storm.

hover

To wait nearby without moving far, as in hover over the kitchen counter.

Formal Synonyms for Wait

await

To expect something with patience, as in await the arrival of the package.

expect

To look forward to an event, as in expect the guests by noon.

remain

To stay in the current position, as in remain seated until called.

abide

To accept or wait patiently, as in abide the decision of the judge.

suspend

To pause an activity temporarily, as in suspend the construction work.

postpone

To arrange for a later time, as in postpone the conference call.

tolerate

To endure something difficult, as in tolerate the noise outside.

repose

To rest quietly while waiting, as in repose in the chair near the window.

conceding

To give up or yield, as in conceding the point in the debate.

supine

To lie down while waiting, as in supine on the grass in the sun.

Informal Synonyms for Wait

hang out

To stay somewhere casually, as in hang out at the mall with friends.

hold on

To wait a short moment, as in hold on while I find my keys.

stay put

To not move from the spot, as in stay put until the teacher returns.

wait around

To wait without a clear purpose, as in wait around for the bus all day.

spend time

To pass hours doing nothing, as in spend time killing the boredom.

idle

To do nothing while waiting, as in idle in the office during lunch.

chill

To relax while waiting, as in chill on the couch until dinner.

kick back

To relax and wait, as in kick back and watch the TV.

take it easy

To relax and not rush, as in take it easy until the doctor calls.

sit tight

To stay in one place, as in sit tight until the police arrive.

Antonyms for Wait

1. actCopy
2. moveCopy
3. startCopy
4. leaveCopy
5. hastenCopy
6. rushCopy
7. departCopy
8. advanceCopy

How to Pick the Right Synonym

Choosing the correct synonym for wait depends on the specific tone and context of your sentence. Use formal words like await for professional settings, while informal terms like hang out suit casual conversations. Consider whether you mean stopping briefly or enduring a long time, as pause differs from endure. Always check if the word fits the gravity of the situation to ensure clear communication.

Frequently Asked Questions