> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.nixflex.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Wait

> Pause while the caller steps away

The `[WAIT]` tag tells the engine that a silence is expected - the caller has stepped away to get or check something - so it should hold the line instead of treating the quiet as a dropped call.

## Syntax

```
[WAIT]
```

No parameters. Place it in the agent’s reply, after whatever it says to the caller.

## Example

> *Caller:* "Give me a second, let me grab my card."
>
> *Agent:* "Of course, take your time. \[WAIT]"

The caller hears "Of course, take your time." The engine holds the line instead of ending the call for silence.

## When to use it

The tag only has any effect when your prompt tells the agent to use it - if your prompt never mentions `[WAIT]`, the engine ignores it. Add a line to your **Actions** guidance:

```
ACTIONS
- If the caller needs a moment to get or check something, tell them to take their time: [WAIT]
```

You decide both when the agent waits and what it says - the clearer your instruction, the better it behaves. Use it only for a real step-away, not for an ordinary short pause in conversation.

## How the wait works

When the agent emits `[WAIT]`, the engine extends the silence timer for that one turn:

1. **The caller comes back and speaks** - everything returns to normal instantly and the conversation continues.
2. **The wait runs out** - the agent gently checks whether the caller is still there ("Are you still there?"), waits a moment, and if there is still no answer it says a polite goodbye and ends the call.

The caller is never cut off mid-wait, and any sound from them cancels the wait immediately.

## Configuration

How long the engine waits is an agent-level field:

| Field              | Default | Range  | Notes                                                            |
| ------------------ | ------- | ------ | ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| `wait_tag_seconds` | `30`    | 30–120 | How long the engine holds the line after a `[WAIT]`, in seconds. |

Set it when creating an agent or update it later - see [Create agent](/api-reference/agents/create) - or use the **Wait tag pause** control in the agent’s Call Ending settings.

<Tip>
  `[WAIT]` is invisible to the caller, like every action tag. Write the words you want the agent to say next to it in your prompt; the agent speaks your words and the engine handles the pause.
</Tip>