have a word with

Idioms  

1. 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.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

have a word with

I'm like, "The seahorses would like to have a word with you about that."

From National Geographic ● Feb. 16, 2024

“I had an experience at LAX, coming through TSA, and this guy was watching me. And as I get through, he said, ‘Can I have a word with you?’

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 24, 2023

If you think chamber music only means musicians playing centuries-old polite melodies on a harpsichord, violinist Kristin Lee would like to have a word with you.

From Seattle Times ● Oct. 17, 2023

He told the boy: "If you have got something to say to me have a chat with your captain and he can come and have a word with me."

From BBC ● May 13, 2023

“Marcus, may I have a word with your teammate?”

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan