Idiom
have a word
Meanings
To speak to someone briefly, often in a serious or private way, about a particular matter.
To ask to speak to someone, often politely, before discussing an issue.
Definition
To have a word means to talk briefly and often seriously with someone.
If you have a word with someone, you speak to them for a short time, usually about an important issue. It often suggests a private or slightly serious conversation, such as giving advice, making a complaint, or warning someone. In British English it can also be used as a polite way to ask to speak to someone.
Examples
- Can I have a word with you after the meeting?
- The teacher wanted to have a word with Jamie about his homework.
- I had a word with the neighbour about the loud music.
- If you have a word with her, she’ll understand.
- The boss asked me to have a word in private.
Common mistake
Learners often say "have words" when they mean a brief talk; "have words with someone" usually means to argue.
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More idiom (verb phrase)s
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- drop the ball To drop the ball means to make a mistake or fail to do something you were responsible for.
- have a chinwag To have a chinwag means to have a relaxed, friendly chat with someone.
- face the music To accept and deal with the unpleasant consequences of what you have done or a difficult situation.