FOR MINUTE Meaning and
Definition
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"For a minute" is an idiomatic expression used to convey a brief period of time. It typically signifies a short duration that is shorter than expected or implied, often emphasizing the brevity or insignificance of the period mentioned.
The phrase can be used literally to refer to a measurement of time, usually meaning 60 seconds. In this sense, "for a minute" denotes a precise length of time, emphasizing its briefness.
However, "for a minute" is often used metaphorically, conveying a longer or shorter duration depending on the context. It can suggest an indefinite or imprecise amount of time, emphasizing the speaker's perception rather than an exact measure. For example, someone saying, "Wait here for a minute" may imply a longer stretch of time, such as a few minutes or even longer.
The phrase can also be employed to express surprise or disbelief when something unexpected or contrary to one's beliefs happens for a short duration. For instance, if a usually punctual person arrives late, someone might say, "He was tardy for a minute," implying the rareness of the occurrence and the short duration of the lateness.
Overall, "for a minute" signifies a brief period of time, both literally and metaphorically, and can be used to indicate a precise measure or evoke a sense of surprise or incredulity.
Common Misspellings for FOR MINUTE
- dor minute
- cor minute
- vor minute
- gor minute
- tor minute
- ror minute
- fir minute
- fkr minute
- flr minute
- fpr minute
- f0r minute
- f9r minute
- foe minute
- fod minute
- fof minute
- fot minute
- fo5 minute
- fo4 minute
- for ninute
- for kinute
- forminute
Etymology of FOR MINUTE
The phrase "for a minute" does not have a distinct etymology as it is a combination of two common English words.
"For" is derived from the Middle English word "for", which comes from the Old English word "for" or "fōr". Its origins can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "furi" meaning "before, in front of". Over time, it evolved to have various meanings and functions in English, including indicating duration or purpose.
"Minute" is derived from the Latin word "minutus", meaning "small" or "little". It entered the English language through Old French as "minute" with the same meaning. In this context, the word "minute" refers to a short, specific amount of time.
When combined, "for a minute" means "for a short period of time" or "briefly".
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