be had
Idioms-
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]
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Be bribed or influenced by dishonest means. For example, Our senator's incorruptible; he cannot be had . [ Slang ; early 1800s]
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.
She admits that difficult conversations need to be had - but these should also encompass failures in social policy, housing, the prison system and the justice system.
From BBC • May 15, 2026
Today it’s out of print, available only as an ebook, though pricey used copies can still be had.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026
It turns out there are riches to be had on the surface of the land, too.
From Barron's • May 14, 2026
Was there any sleep to be had for Muncy that night?
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026
I count my lucky stars—that is, I’m reminded again that there is some luck to be had, even for a washed-up hustler like me.
From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
