Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Wait” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
To stay where you are or pause until an expected event occurs.
Meaning of Wait
To stay in place or delay action until something happens.
How to Pronounce Wait
IPA: /weɪt/ Stress: O
One syllable: /weɪt/, rhymes with 'late' and 'gate'.
4 Synonyms for Wait — Words Similar to Wait
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
stay
/steɪ/To remain in one place or condition without leaving.
Example: I will stay at home tonight.
remain
/rɪˈmeɪn/Stay in one place or keep being the same.
Example: She remained calm during the problem.
pause
/pɔːz/A short time when you stop doing something.
Example: There was a pause in the conversation.
delay
/dɪˈleɪ/To postpone or make something happen at a later time than expected.
Example: The bad weather delayed the flight by three hours.
Smart Synonyms for Wait — When to Use Each
stay
remaining in one place until something happens
pause
temporary stop while expecting something
expect
anticipating something that will occur
Antonyms of Wait — Opposite Words
How to Use Wait and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- Please wait here while I get my keys. A1
- We waited for the bus for twenty minutes. A1
- She is waiting for the doctor's appointment. A2
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Wait
What is another word for "wait"?
Common synonyms for "wait" include: stay, remain, pause, delay.
What can I say instead of "wait"?
Try one of these alternatives: stay, remain, pause, delay. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "wait" formal or informal?
"wait" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "wait" instead of "stay"?
Use "wait" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "stay" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "wait"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "wait" include: leave, go, continue.