New York minute

The term New York minute refers to the common perception that New York City is very busy; much is happening at all hours of the day, people are often in a hurry and can be impatient. The term means a period much shorter than a minute, which in New York is supposed to be equivalent to a minute elsewhere.

It is an old joke in New York City that a New York minute is defined as the amount of time between the light in front of you turning green and the taxicab behind you honking (which may actually be half a second or so).

The expression "New York Minute" was used as the title of a popular song by The Eagles.