have a word with


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

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

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

have a word with

To have a brief conversation with (someone); speak to.See also: have, word