How to ask for a moment to think

A few phrases for when you know what you mean but need time to say it.

2 min read

Make a little space

A pause is part of a conversation. You can tell the other person that you are thinking instead of rushing into an answer. Try “Let me think for a moment” or “That is a good question. Give me a second.”

Start with one part

If your answer has several parts, begin with the part you can explain. “The main reason is…” gives you somewhere to start. You can add another detail afterward.

Phrases to try

Let me think for a moment.: Any time you need a short pause.
That’s a good question. Give me a second.: When a question surprises you.
The main reason is…: When your answer has several parts.

Try it aloud

Choose a question you might hear this week. Say one of the phrases, pause, then give a short answer. Try it again with a different question. The aim is to have a phrase available when you need it.