Differences between wait on and wave on
Wait on means to serve or attend to someone, while wave on means to signal or gesture for someone to proceed.
Meanings and Definitions: wait on vs wave on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Wait on
- 1Serve people in a restaurant.
They have two people WAITING ON each table.
- 2Sell goods in a shop.
He WAITS ON customers in an electronics store.
- 3Provide someone with everything they need or want.
He has a butler who WAITS ON him.
- 4Wait for a result before being able to make a decision.
They're WAITING ON the results of the vote before taking a final decision.
Wave on
- 1Make a hand signal to tell someone to keep moving.
The accident was bad, but the police WAVED us ON.
Usage Examples: wait on, wave on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
wait on
Example
She waits on customers at the cafe.
Example
He waits on tables at the restaurant.
wave on
Example
The traffic officer waved on the cars after the accident.
Example
She waves on the pedestrians to cross the street.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wait on
To provide food, drink, or other services to someone.
Example
The waiter came over to serve us our drinks and take our order.
To help or support someone in completing a task or achieving a goal.
Example
The sales associate offered to assist the customer in finding the right size and style of shoes.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wave on
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “wait”
Phrasal Verbs with “wave”
Differences in wait on vs wave on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: wait on or wave on?
In daily conversation, people use wait on more often than wave on. This is because wait on is used in a variety of settings such as restaurants, stores, and hospitals. Wave on is less common and is mainly used when directing traffic or pedestrians. So, while both phrases are used, wait on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of wait on and wave on
Wait on and wave on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of wait on and wave on
The tone of wait on and wave on can differ based on context. Wait on often carries a service-oriented or respectful tone when related to serving or attending to someone's needs, while wave on typically has a directive and assertive tone, especially when referring to directing traffic or pedestrians.
