Where does the expression “wait from noon to two p.m.” come from ?

A very French expression with a hint of absurdity

The expression " wait from noon to 2 p.m. "May seem surprising at first. Why mention such a short interval (only two hours), as if it were an interminable or unreasonable wait? That is precisely where the subtlety of this typically French expression lies: saying a lot with little, and turning the meaning against reality.

A satirical and ironic origin

The expression originated in the 17th century and is ironic: since "noon" is a fixed and well-known time, adding "two o'clock" (i.e., 2 PM) seems to artificially prolong the wait. But in reality, it mocks those who complicate what is simple, or expect the impossible. The idea is not so much to point out a long wait, but a wait that is useless, unjustified, or absurd.

It is therefore a form of antiphrasis, a rhetorical device common in the French language, where the literal meaning is reversed to produce a comic or critical effect.

An expression related to other French turns of phrase

“Waiting from noon to two o’clock” joins a set of expressions that convey the futility of an effort or the incoherence of an approach:

• “To make things more complicated than they need to be”: to complicate what is simple.
• "Getting up early in the morning at noon": pointing out a contradiction in the terms.

These formulas reveal a certain French way of handling logic with derision, of pointing out the incoherence of everyday life.

How can we use it today?

Today, the expression can be used to criticize an exaggerated expectation or to gently mock misplaced perfectionism.

For example : “Are you still hesitating to choose your watch? At this rate, you’ll end up waiting from noon to 2 p.m. to switch to Charlie Time.”

It remains alive, although less common in youth slang. It nevertheless retains a retro charm, imbued with dry humor.