Have words Meaning in English
expression
ˈhæv/ /ˈwɝdz
HAV WURDZ
hæv/ /wˈɜːdz
HAV WURDZ
Definition
To have an argument or a serious conversation, often because you disagree with someone.
Usage & Nuances
This phrase is mostly informal and is often used to imply an argument, not just any conversation. Common collocation is 'have words with someone'. It usually suggests disagreement or tension. Don't confuse with friendly chatting.
Spanish: discutir - tener una charla seriaPortuguese (BR): ter uma discussão - ter uma conversa sériaPortuguese (PT): ter uma discussão - ter uma conversa sériaChinese (Simplified): 争吵 - 谈话（严肃）Chinese (Traditional): 爭吵 - 談話（嚴肅）Hindi: झगड़ा करना - गंभीर बातचीत करनाArabic: يتجادل - يجري محادثة جادةBengali: তর্ক করা - কথা কাটাকাটি করাRussian: поругаться - выяснить отношенияJapanese: 言い争う - 口論するVietnamese: tranh cãi - cãi nhauKorean: 말다툼하다 - 언쟁하다Turkish: atışmak - ağız dalaşı yapmakUrdu: تلخ کلامی کرنا - جھگڑا کرناIndonesian: beradu argumen - bertengkar
Example Sentences
I need to have words with my brother about his attitude.
basic
They had words after the meeting.
basic
My parents sometimes have words about money.
basic
If you keep being late, we’re going to have words.
natural
Jack and his boss had words over his work performance.
natural
After the game, the players had words on the field.
natural