sec
- 01 B1 Intermediate
a very short period of time; a quick way to say 'second'.
a clipping of 'second' used to denote a brief, often indeterminate, interval of time.
Simple“Wait just a sec while I grab my coat from the hallway.”
In context“The system took a sec to process the request, but the confirmation appeared on the screen shortly thereafter.”
UsageCommonly used in the phrase 'hang on a sec' or 'just a sec'.
- 02 C1 Advanced
a short way to write or say 'secretary', often used for high-level government leaders.
a clipping of 'secretary', typically referring to a cabinet-level official or the head of a department.
Simple“The Home Sec is expected to make an announcement later today.”
In context“The former Foreign Sec addressed the committee regarding the diplomatic implications of the new trade agreement.”
Teacher's tipThis is particularly common in British news headlines to save space.