What Does “have a word with someone” mean?
Definition:
If you have a word with someone, you have a brief conversation with them.
The origin of the idiom
The origin of the idiom dates back to the late 1400s. Later in 1700s, the expression was used interchangeably with the phrase ‘have words with someone’, but now both phrases have different meanings.
Related idioms
have a word in someone’s ear.
have a word with oneself.
Example(s)
If your son is a drug addict, have a word with him and offer practical help.
Can I have a word with you?
The principal wanted to have a word with the child’s parents.
I have just had a word with Jane. she promised to join us tomorrow.
I think we should have a word.
She knew she was in big trouble when the teacher asked to have a word with her after class.
This idiom is in the language category.
