have words with
have words (with someone)
To argue, quarrel, or speak angrily (with someone). John's having words with Danny over the phone bills he's been racking up. I'll have to have words with him if his behavior doesn't improve. It sounds like Tom and Mary are having words again.
See also: have, word
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
have words with someone (over someone or something)
Fig. to quarrel with someone over someone or something. I had words with John over Mary and her friends. Elaine had words with Tony over his driving habits.
See also: have, word
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
have words with
Quarrel with, scold, as in If Pete keeps on pushing Billy I'm going to have words with him. This phrase dates from the late 1700s, although the use of words for an altercation is much older. Also see have a word with.
See also: have, word
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
- have words
- have words (with someone)
- have/exchange words
- exchange words (with someone)
- exchange no more than
- exchange no more than (an amount of) words
- put (something) into words
- put into words
- in so many words
- in so/as many words