get a word in edgewise

Idioms  

1. Also, get a word in edgeways. Insert oneself into a conversation or express one's opinion despite competition from other speakers. For example, So many people had questions for the lecturer that it was hard to get a word in edgewise, or Nancy loves to talk, and I couldn't get a word in edgeways. This idiom, often put in the negative, transfers an object with its edge foremost to inserting conversation. [Late 1700s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

get a word in edgewise

It was never easy to get a word in edgewise, and there was nothing “safe” about that space—say anything half-stupid and everyone would pile on for the next 25 years.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 19, 2025

My friend has a 16-year-old child who is shy, quiet and smart, but who can't get a word in edgewise when we three are together.

From Washington Post ● Jun. 14, 2022

A conversation that — for this year at least — has largely gone on with the ACC failing to get a word in edgewise.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 24, 2021

The greater challenge will be if you win, trying to get a word in edgewise during your meal.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 3, 2020

The air’s full of laughter and the general hum of people chatting over one another, trying to get a word in edgewise.

From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz