# have a word with oneself

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/have-a-word-with-oneself
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To consider one's attitudes or behavior with a view to reform.

## Examples

- You need to have a word with yourself about your bad attitude.
- After losing his temper at the meeting, he decided to have a word with himself about how he treats his colleagues.
- Realizing that his recent choices had alienated his closest allies, he sat in silence to have a word with himself regarding his future conduct.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.