take a number
English
Verb
take a number
- To queue; to wait to be served by being assigned a number and waiting for that number to be called after all previous numbers have been served in order of assignment
- (idiomatic) To recognize that many others are in the same situation; recognize that one's concerns are not of high priority; be prepared to wait.
- 1994, Stryker McGuire et al., "Sale Of The Century?," Newsweek, 12 Sep.,
- Wanna buy a television network? Take a number. A few years ago you would have had the field to yourself.
- 2000, Tony Karon, "Chile Exorcises the Specter of Pinochet," Time, 8 Aug.,
- Even if they did decide to prosecute, the Justice Department would have to take a number and stand in a very long line.
- 1994, Stryker McGuire et al., "Sale Of The Century?," Newsweek, 12 Sep.,