Have a word Meaning in English
expression
ˈhæv/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈwɝd
HAV-uh-WURD
hæv/ /æɪ/ /wˈɜːd
HAV-uh-WURD
Definition
To speak with someone, usually briefly or privately, often to discuss something important or to give advice.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in both casual and formal situations. Often implies a private or serious conversation, not just chatting. Can sound gentle or firm depending on tone. Used in phrases like 'Can I have a word?' (request) or 'I'll have a word with him.' (promise to talk).
Spanish: hablar - conversar (brevemente)Portuguese (BR): conversar - falar (rápido)Portuguese (PT): falar - conversar (rapidamente)Chinese (Simplified): 谈一谈 - 说几句话Chinese (Traditional): 談一談 - 說幾句話Hindi: बात करना - थोड़ी देर बात करनाArabic: تحدث - تكلم (بسرعة)Bengali: কথা বলা - একটু আলোচনা করাRussian: поговорить - переговоритьJapanese: 少し話す - 相談するVietnamese: nói chuyện một chút - bàn riêngKorean: 이야기하다 - 잠깐 얘기하다Turkish: konuşmak - kısa bir görüşme yapmakUrdu: بات کرنا - مختصر گفتگو کرناIndonesian: ngobrol sebentar - bicara sebentar
Example Sentences
Can I have a word with you after class?
basic
She wants to have a word about the project.
basic
The teacher will have a word with your parents.
basic
Let’s have a word outside where it’s quieter.
natural
I’ll have a word with him and see what’s going on.
natural
If you have a minute, can we have a word in private?
natural