The phrase "this minute" is spelled as /ðɪs/ /ˈmɪnɪt/. The first part of the phrase is spelled with the voiced dental fricative /ð/, which can be confusing for non-native English speakers as it often sounds like /d/. The second part of the phrase is spelled with the short "i" sound /ɪ/ and the stressed syllable is on the second syllable, which is why there is an accent mark on the "i". It is important to spell words correctly to ensure clear communication and avoid misunderstandings.
This minute refers to the present moment or the current instant in time. It is used to emphasize that something is happening or needs to happen immediately or without delay. The phrase "this minute" suggests that an action or event should occur without any further delay, highlighting a sense of urgency.
The term "this minute" often implies a level of impatience or demand for immediate attention. For example, if someone says "I need it done this minute," they are emphasizing that they require the task to be completed right away, without any delay. Similarly, if someone says "I'll be there this minute," they are expressing their intention to arrive promptly or without delay.
The phrase can be used in various contexts, such as in personal conversations, work-related discussions, or in urgent situations where immediate action is required. It conveys a sense of urgency and a need for immediate attention or response.
Overall, "this minute" is a term that emphasizes the instantaneous nature of an action or event, highlighting the requirement for immediate action or attention without any further delay.
The phrase "this minute" has its origins in Old English, the earliest recorded form of the English language.
The word "this" comes from the Old English word "þes", which means "this" or "this one". It can be traced further back to the Proto-Germanic word "*þiz", meaning "this".
The word "minute" has a slightly different etymology. It comes from the Old French word "minute", which means "small" or "minute" in English. The French word has its roots in the Latin word "minutus", which means "small" or "lessened". In English, the word "minute" originally referred to a small amount of time, which eventually developed into its current meaning of a unit of time measuring 60 seconds.
So, when combined, the phrase "this minute" essentially means "this small amount of time".