be had

Idioms  

1. Be outwitted; also, be cheated, deceived. For example, This lawyer is a real shyster; you've been had , or I've become very cautious about these schemes; it's too costly to be had more than once . This expression employs the verb to have in the sense of getting someone in one's power or at a disadvantage. [ Slang ; early 1800s]

2. Be bribed or influenced by dishonest means. For example, Our senator's incorruptible; he cannot be had . [ Slang ; early 1800s]

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Example Sentences

Was there any sleep to be had for Muncy that night?

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

Fortunately, there’s still fun to be had for procrastinators, whether on an eclipse-themed Mallorca beach break, last-minute soccer viewing party or on D.C. rooftops as the sky lights up with fireworks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

But with selection for the World Cup looking increasingly unlikely, there may be discussions to be had about his immediate career plan in the summer.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

But while Rasgon said he understood those concerns, he added there’s still “value to be had under the surface,” given Qualcomm’s product portfolio and “an emerging AI story to boot.”

From MarketWatch • Feb. 4, 2026

When spring weather came, there was good hunting and fishing to be had.

From "Life Is So Good" by George Dawson