have a word with

Idioms

Speak with, discuss with, as in Jerry asked to have a word with you, or I must have a word with Bill about the repairs. This expression, from the late 1400s, was at one time used interchangeably with have words with, but it no longer is.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Can I just have a word with him?” the social worker asked.

From Literature

“But I think we’ll make more progress talking in a more formal setting. I’ll have a word with your boss, make the necessary arrangements.”

From Literature

When he got home, he was absolutely going to have a word with Daniel.

From Literature

“I was wondering if I might have a word with Andrew Yaeger in the hall. You have my word I’ll have him back in a jiff.”

From Literature

“Except for you, Miss Lumley. You are to come see me in my study at five o’clock, precisely one hour from now. I would have a word with you. In private.”

From Literature

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023