just a minute

just a minute

1. A short amount of time. Though the actual amount of time can vary, the phrase usually refers to a few minutes. Your order will be ready in just a minute, sir. I'll need just a minute to change when we get hom, and then we can go right back out.
2. interjection A request for someone to wait a short amount of time. Just a minute! I'll open the door as soon as I get dressed. OK, I just need to print out your receipt. Just a minute, please.
3. interjection Used to indicate one's desire to address something with which one disagrees or is dissatisfied. Now, just a minute! I did nothing wrong, and I won't stand to hear such nasty accusations! A: "So, Bill and Mary, you two will be in the front dealing with customers. Tom, I'll need you to haul the cases from the delivery truck into the warehouse." B: "Hey, just a minute—why do those two get such a cushy job while I get stuck with the heavy lifting?"
See also: just, minute
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

just a minute

only a short time; [wait] a short period of time. I'm almost done. I'll be there in just a minute! Could I have just a minute of your time?
See also: just, minute

Just a minute (you)!

Stop where you are! (Not very polite.) Just a minute, you! Where are you going with my coat?
See also: just
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

just a minute

Also, just a moment.
1. Wait a little bit. This expression is used before explaining oneself, as in Just a minute, I didn't mean that he was wrong, or to stop someone from something, as in Just a moment, I was here first. Also see hold everything.
2. Only a very short time, as in I'll be with you in just a minute.
See also: just, minute
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

just a ˈminute/ˈmoment/ˈsecond

(informal) used to ask somebody to wait for a short time: ‘Is Mr Burns available?’ ‘Just a second, please, I’ll check.’
See also: just, minute, moment, second
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • Just a minute!
  • just a minute/moment/second
  • just a moment
  • just a sec(ond)
  • sec
  • lose (some amount of) time
  • lose some amount of time
  • lose time
  • of the order of (some amount)
  • in/of the order of