can we have a second? vs can we have one second?

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Can we have a second?' is a more common and natural way to ask for a brief moment or pause. 'Can we have one second?' is also correct but may sound a bit more formal or precise.

Last updated: March 24, 2024 • 1187 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to ask for a brief moment or pause.

"can we have a second?"

This phrase is a casual and common way to request a short pause or moment of time. It is often used in informal conversations or meetings.

Examples:

Can we have a second to think about this?
Can we have a second to discuss the next steps?
Can we have a second to catch our breath?
Can we have a second to regroup?
Can we have a second to review the plan?

Show examples from the web [+]

Liv, can we have a second?
Actually, Serena, can we have a second?
Sorry. Can we just have a second?
Can you call me back when you have a second?
- Ashleigh, do you have a second? - Sure Fisher.
Dr. Bailey, do you have a second?
Castle, do you have a second?
You can't go through one person then have a second?
Wait. Do you have a second?
Mr. Emminger, do you have a second?
Lore, do you have a second?
Kiera, you have a second?
Kiera, you have a second?
Can I talk to you when you have a second?
Dr. Quirke, can I have a second?
Eli, do you have a second?
Uncle Jed, do you have a second?
We have a second vehicle approaching.
So we have a second murder.
So we have a second murder.

Alternatives:

Can we have a moment?
Can we take a brief pause?
Can we pause for a second?
Can we take a short break?
Can we have a quick moment?

This phrase is correct but may sound slightly more formal or precise compared to the more common 'Can we have a second?'

"can we have one second?"

This phrase is also used to request a brief moment or pause, but it may sound a bit more formal or precise. It can be used in situations where a more exact measurement of time is needed.

Examples:

Can we have one second to clarify this point?
Can we have one second to check the details?
Can we have one second to confirm the information?
Can we have one second to review the document?
Can we have one second to make a decision?

Show examples from the web [+]

Listen, could I have one second?
Can you hold on one second?
Lana, I'm sure we have one second.
Actually, could you excuse me just one second?
Can't you stop for one second?
Could I use the phone for one second?
Can we talk for one second?
Will you stop hamming it up for one second?
Okay, can you hold one second?
- You thought all that in one second?
- Can I talk to Olivia for one second?
Can we stop the horseplay for one second?
Will you stop hamming it up for one second?
Can you turn that off for one second?
Can l just see her for one second?
Could you please be serious for one second?
Can you just hold on one second?
Would you just speak American for one second?
Could you hold on just one second?
Can you stop being so defensive for one second?

Alternatives:

Can we have a moment?
Can we take a brief pause?
Can we pause for a second?
Can we take a short break?
Can we have a quick moment?

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can we have a second? vs can we have one second?