have words
To argue, to have an argument.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I had words with my neighbor about the loud music.”
“The manager had words with the employee after she arrived late for the third time this week.”
“After the board meeting concluded, the two partners had words in private regarding the company's sudden change in direction.”
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bad word
A vulgar word.
- 02
breathe a word
To divulge even part of a secret (usually used with a negative).
- 03
dicky
[Cockney slang]word
- 04
dirty word
The name of a topic that a person prefers not to hear or discuss.
- 05
empty words
Any type of talk with little meaning; a message that seems to contain meaningful content but is actually vapid.
- 06
from the word go
From the very beginning; from the outset; immediately upon starting.
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get the word out
To make some information more widely known.
- 08
hang on every word
To be completely attentive to what another person is saying.
Last updated August 10, 2026