sec
word
/ˈsɛk/
sek
/ˈsɛk/
sek
Definition
A short form of "second," usually meaning a unit of time equal to 1/60 of a minute. It is very common in informal speech, texting, and quick notes.
Usage & Nuances
Usually written rather than spoken in full sentences, especially in texting, subtitles, timers, and notes: "wait a sec," "30 sec." In casual speech, "sec" often means "a very short time," not always exactly one second. Less common in formal writing, where "second" is preferred.
Spanish: segundoPortuguese (BR): segundoPortuguese (PT): segundoChinese (Simplified): 秒Chinese (Traditional): 秒Hindi: सेकंडArabic: ثانيةBengali: সেকেন্ড (সংক্ষিপ্ত রূপ)Russian: сек (сокращённо)Japanese: 秒(略)Vietnamese: giây (viết tắt)Korean: 초 (약어)Turkish: sn (saniye - kısaltma)Urdu: سیکنڈ (مختصر طور پر)Indonesian: dtk (detik - singkatan)
Example Sentences
The light stayed on for one sec.
basic
Wait a sec, I'm putting on my shoes.
basic
I'll be back in a sec.
basic
Can you hold on a sec? I'm almost done.
natural
For a sec, I thought I missed the bus.
natural
Just give me a sec to check my calendar.
natural