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

If you’re buying food on site, plan on $20 and up for most entrees, with a few deals to be had.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

Saying too much more would spoil all of the fun to be had, but the banana is only the beginning.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

There was clearly more pace to be had but given he hadn't done any running on high fuel before the race, Japan was a job well done.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 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

As soon as he found out that Ethan would be in town, he started calling the ticket office to buy one more, but there were none to be had.

From "The View From Saturday" by E.L. Konigsburg