Wait On – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever been in a restaurant? The server comes to your table to help you. They wait on you. This phrasal verb is very common, but it is different from “wait for.” Learning to use wait on correctly will make your English sound more natural.
What Does “Wait On” Mean?
It means to serve someone, like in a restaurant or store. Think of it like a helper who brings you what you need. It is not the same as “wait for,” which means to stay in one place until something happens.
When to Use It
Use wait on when talking about service. Use it in restaurants, hotels, or shops. You can also use it at a party if you are serving food and drinks to guests. It is a neutral phrase, common in everyday American English.
Example Sentences
- The server will wait on us in a few minutes.
- She waits on customers all day at her job.
- Don’t worry, I can wait on myself. You don’t need to help me.
- Who is waiting on that table by the window?
Mini Dialogue
Customer: “Excuse me, is someone going to help us?”
Host: “Yes, a server will be right over to wait on you.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake is using “wait on” when you mean “wait for.” Remember, “wait on” is for service.
❌ Don’t say: “I will wait on you outside the movie theater.”
✅ Do say: “I will wait for you outside the movie theater.”
Practice Tip
Next time you are in a cafe or restaurant, try to think of a sentence using “wait on.” For example, “Our server is waiting on five tables.” This will help you remember the meaning.
Final Note
Now you understand how to use wait on. It’s a small but important difference. Pay attention the next time you hear it, and soon you will be using it correctly with confidence!
