In a Jiffy
“Stay right there. I’ll be back in a jiffy.” I wonder how many parents have said that to a child. Or how many spouses have said that to one another. They don’t want the person to move. They will return quickly
In a jiffy means in a short amount of time.
Closely related to immediately, if not sooner, in a jiffy can refer to:
- The speed of a person’s work (“I will finish this in a jiffy.”)
- How long a person will be gone (“I will return in a jiffy.”)
- The promise of good service (“Your waiter will be with you in a jiffy.)
- No delay of any kind
In today’s world of instant gratification, people expect almost everything in a jiffy.
No one wants to wait. Patience remains in short supply.
However, much in life is better with time.
- Fresh fruit and vegetables need time to ripen.
- People need time to learn.
- Research requires time for accuracy.
In these and other instances, haste makes waste.
Speed is often necessary. However, rather than rush, people usually do well to take one step at a time.
“If we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently” (Romans 8:25 NIV).
Thanks to Liz Gray for the suggestion.
Do you have an expression you want explained? If so, please comment below.
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