have some words

USAGE SUMMARY

"have some words" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it as a polite request asking someone to comment on a particular situation or to provide a response. For example, "I'd really appreciate it if you could have some words on the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

But I think it's good to have some words.

The Guardian

Though he refused to enter a plea, Mr. Estrada did have some words for the court.

The New York Times

'They even,' he boomed, 'brought it back to Britain in the diplomatic bag.' He did have some words of comfort.

The Guardian - Opinion

In contrast, more Southern European cultures have some words about being outside and strolling around and savoring the atmosphere.

The New Yorker

As someone who has spent his adult life raising a family and running a financial business in New York, I have some words of wisdom for my anxious friends: Calm down.

The New York Times

CreditExpert's Jim Hodgkins does have some words of warning, though: "Just be careful you keep a close track of your gifts so you don't end up in the sticky situation of handing it back to the same person".

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"We have asked to have some wording removed or sanitized, and we have received those assurances," said Mayor Dennis Archer of Detroit.

The New York Times

Let's have some word association fun on this, England's birthday.

Vice

Poching had some words of comfort.

Independent

And Jackson had some words for Curry.

The New York Times - Sports

"I have had some words with Bob Welch," he wrote me.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have some words" when you want to indicate that someone is about to speak or offer their opinion on a particular matter. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "have some words" in contexts where a more specific term like "offer advice" or "express concerns" would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound vague or less precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have some words" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating an intention to speak, comment, or offer advice. It serves to signal that someone is about to communicate something, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have some words" is a common phrase used to indicate that someone intends to speak or comment on a topic. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and versatile, suitable for a range of contexts from news media to casual conversation. While primarily neutral in register, the phrase leans slightly towards informality. When using "have some words", consider the specific context to ensure it aligns with your intended message, and be mindful that it can sometimes imply a forthcoming scolding or reprimand. Alternatives like "make some remarks" or "offer some comments" may be more appropriate for formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

say a few words

Implies a brief speech or statement, often given on a special occasion.

offer some comments

Focuses on providing specific remarks or feedback rather than a general conversation.

share a few thoughts

Emphasizes the act of expressing one's opinions or reflections briefly.

make some remarks

Highlights the act of stating observations or comments, often in a formal setting.

express some opinions

Focuses on conveying personal viewpoints or beliefs about a subject.

give some advice

Specifically refers to providing guidance or recommendations based on knowledge or experience.

add some input

Highlights the act of contributing information or perspective to a discussion.

voice some concerns

Emphasizes the expression of worries or anxieties about a particular issue.

utter a statement

Implies a formal or official declaration of something.

provide a commentary

Focuses on offering a detailed analysis or interpretation of an event or topic.

FAQs

How can I use "have some words" in a sentence?

You can use "have some words" to indicate that someone is about to speak or offer an opinion, as in "The manager wanted to "say a few words" about the new policy" or "The expert will "share a few thoughts" on the matter".

What are some alternatives to "have some words"?

Some alternatives to "have some words" include "offer some comments", "share a few thoughts", or "make some remarks", depending on the context.

Is "have some words" formal or informal?

"Have some words" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally more suitable for situations where you want to indicate that someone is about to speak without specifying the exact nature of their comments. In more formal settings, consider "make some remarks" for added formality.

What does it mean when someone says they "have some words" for you?

When someone says they "have some words" for you, it usually means they want to offer advice, express their opinion, or sometimes, to scold or reprimand you. The tone and context often determine the specific intent.