have words
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb (phrasal verb): - To reprimand, scold, or argue with someone angrily: To express strong disapproval or anger towards someone, often in a verbal confrontation.
Usage
This phrasal verb is used to describe a situation where one person angrily criticizes, rebukes, or argues with another. It implies a direct, often heated, verbal exchange. It is typically followed by the preposition 'with' when specifying the target of the reprimand.
Examples
- The manager had words with the employee about the consistent lateness.
- I saw them having words in the hallway; it sounded like a serious disagreement.
- She had words with her neighbor over the loud music late at night.
Advanced Usage
- To have strong words (with someone): This is a common variant that emphasizes the severity or intensity of the reprimand.
- The coach had strong words with the team after their poor performance.
Variants and Related Words
- Tell off (phrasal verb): To reprimand or scold someone. (e.g., )
- Berate (verb): To scold or criticize angrily. (More formal)
- Reprimand (verb/noun): A formal expression of disapproval.
Synonyms
- Scold
- Rebuke
- Chide
- Admonish
- Lecture
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Have it out (with someone): To have a frank and often angry discussion to settle a dispute.
- They decided to have it out to resolve their differences once and for all.
Related Idioms
- Read someone the riot act: To give someone a severe warning or reprimand.
- After the mistake, the director read him the riot act.
- Give someone a piece of one's mind: To express one's disapproval to someone angrily and frankly.
- She gave him a piece of her mind about his irresponsible behavior.
Verb
- censure severely or angrily
- The mother scolded the child for entering a stranger's car
- The deputy ragged the Prime Minister
- The customer dressed down the waiter for bringing cold soup