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Posted By: Fritz "a New York minute"? - 05/13/13 01:37 AM
What's the definition of, and origin of, "a New York minute"?
Thanks!!
FM
Posted By: Faldage Re: "a New York minute"? - 05/13/13 10:38 AM
It's an instant. The classic definition is "the time between when the light turns green and the guy behind you honks his horn." Here's Wordorigins' take on the subject:

http://www.wordorigins.org/index.php/site/new_york_minute/
Posted By: jenny jenny Re: "a New York minute"? - 05/13/13 02:25 PM
Could be but...

The complete phrase used in the South predates "Hereees Johnny" and is self-explanatory e.g. "Free beer? I'll be there in a New York minute and that ain't but thirty seconds!"
circa 1958
Posted By: LukeJavan8 Re: "a New York minute"? - 05/13/13 05:14 PM
The "free beer" is good for me!
Your's is the definition I've heard.
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