have a word with (one)
have a word with (one)
To talk with one, perhaps to issue a warning or reprimand. A: "Aunt Karen let me have ice cream for dinner!" B: "Is that so? Karen, may I have a word with you?" I just had a word with Stu and he said he'll join us tonight.
See also: have, word
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
have a word with
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.
See also: have, word
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
have a ˈword (with somebody) (about something)
have a short conversation about something, especially in private: Can I have a word, Marie? It’s about Jane.See also: have, word
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
have a word with
To have a brief conversation with (someone); speak to.
See also: have, word
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
- have a word
- have a word with
- a word with (one)
- word with
- I'd like a word with you
- Can I have a word with you?
- I'd like to have a word with you
- I'd like a word with you. and Could I have a word with you?
- after
- after (someone or something)