New york minute Meaning and Definition
New York Minute
Pronunciation
/n.jORK MIN.it/
Part of Speech
Noun Phrase
Definition
A unit of time equal to one minute, specifically referring to the fast-paced, efficient, and extremely quick manner in which people live and work in New York City.
Examples
- She managed to get everything done in a New York minute.
- New York minutes don’t exist in a small town like ours.
Synonyms
- Rapidly
- Quickly
Etymology
The phrase is believed to have originated from the idea that people in New York City, particularly business professionals, operate in a fast-paced environment where every minute counts. This concept was popularized in the 1970s and 1980s through media and cultural references.
Usage Notes
The phrase is often used humorously or ironically to describe situations where time seems to pass extremely slowly or quickly, depending on the context.
Cultural References
The phrase has been featured in various film, television, and music productions, including the popular sitcom “Seinfeld” and the song “A New York Minute” by Mandy Moore.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
New York minute, being equal to one minute, is used as an idiomatic expression to convey the idea of rapidity or speed.
Related Words or Phrases
Fast-paced, quick, rapid, swift, fleeting
Collocations
New York minute – fast-paced, quick-witted, efficient, productive
Frequency of Use
The phrase is often used in informal conversations, especially in a humorous or ironic tone, and is relatively common in popular culture.
Common Misspellings
New york minute, newyork minute, n.y. minute