back up there for a (second/minute)
Meaning(s)
1. return to what was just previously said/done; wait before continuing further
Popularity
Medium
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
back up there for a second while I catch up
Analysis
To 'back up' in a vehicle or movement means 'to reverse'. In a less literal context, it can be used to ask someone to repeat something or to go over information or instructions again. It is commonly used in social contexts by someone listening to an explanation or story, where the person listening has a question or needs to interrupt to clarify the information or fact. This can be used in social or professional contexts but is a little informal and certainly less polite than asking someone to repeat something or asking for clarification directly. You could also say 'Hold up' or 'Hang on' a second/minute.
Social Examples (Basic)
- Wait, back up there for a second...did you say he was wearing a chicken suit?
- Could you back up there for a minute while I write this down?
Professional Examples (Basic)
- Could you back up there for a second? Did you say there might be redundancies?
- Can we back up there for a moment, let's discuss this further, I don't think we have really come to an agreement.