On Waiting
- 1 February 1995
- journal article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Time & Society
- Vol. 4 (1) , 29-45
- https://doi.org/10.1177/0961463x95004001002
Abstract
This article argues that waiting, a typical `inter-stitial time', deserves specific analysis because of the wealth of meanings which can be attributed to it from the actor's point of view. After considering the links between `waiting' and `expectation', three types of waiting are considered: namely, waiting as blockage of action; as an experience filled with substitute meanings; and as a meaningful experience. Special attention is paid to the causes underlying waiting in service activities. Finally, the author tries to show how various kinds of waiting are interrelated in everyday life.Keywords
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