The word ‘wait‘ can mean many different things. As a verb, the meaning is to stay where you are or to show someone is impatient.
For example:
- Wait until the light turns green before you go. (stay)
- Jimmy couldn’t wait open his presents. (impatient)
- Wait is a regular verb. The past tense and past participle is waited.
phrasal verbs with wait
Phrasal verbs with ‘wait’ include:
- wait about/around
meaning – wait and do nothing
example – I waited around by the gate for ages, but you didn’t show up. - wait behind
meaning – stay after other people have left
example – I waited behind after Pilates to talk to Mark but his girlfriend arrived. - wait in
meaning – stay at home as you are expecting a visitor
example – I waited in until 7:30, then I had to go to work. - wait on/upon
meaning – wait for results or serve people
example – I’m sick and tired of waiting on my kids. They destroy the house and don’t lift a finger to help. - wait up
meaning – wait or stay awake until someone gets home
example – Wait up! I need to ask you a question.
picture examples
Let’s learn the meaning of the phrasal verbs that contain the verb ‘wait’ in more detail and see some examples in use.
If you’ve enjoyed this page, there are plenty more for you to look at. Click here to see the list of groups ready and waiting to be studied. Maybe you just like informal/slang English? Head to my useful tips and information section for loads more hints and tips to speak like a native.
If you really want to take your native speaking to the next level, how about taking a course? Here are some of the best ones:
