# have a word

idiom

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

## Meaning

To speak to someone, usually and especially in private, often in order to admonish.

## Examples

- I need to have a word with you about your work.
- The manager asked the employee to step into his office because he wanted to have a word about the recent mistakes.
- After the student disrupted the lecture for the third time, the professor requested that he stay behind so she could have a word regarding his behavior.

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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.