have the privilege

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'have the privilege' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a special advantage or honor that someone or something has. For example, you could say "We are privileged to have the chance to work with such a well-respected organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Everyone's flying in and out of the city that you have the privilege of playing in.

The New York Times - Sports

You have the privilege of serving us.

The Washington Post

We have the privilege of free speech.

The Guardian - Opinion

I hope to have the privilege to play for him.

The New York Times

Growing up, I didn't have the privilege of forgetting that".

The New York Times

Access can be blocked only to the users who have the privilege to access data.

Oracle 10g Developing Media Rich Applications

Poor music students have the privilege of listening to classical m music records.

The New Yorker

Now united in purpose, they cannot agree on who should have the privilege of assassinating Riccardo.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So it's very special to have the privilege of working here again".

Independent

I wanted to know what was going on inside but didn't have the privilege of access.

The New York Times

They protest and argue that they should have the privilege of singing what they see fit.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have the privilege" to express gratitude or recognition of a special opportunity, such as "I have the privilege of introducing our keynote speaker."

Common error

Avoid using "have the privilege" when describing situations that are basic rights or necessities. For example, it's better to say "I am grateful to have access to clean water" rather than "I have the privilege of having access to clean water".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have the privilege" functions as a verb phrase, typically followed by an infinitive, indicating that someone possesses a special right, opportunity, or advantage. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

29%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have the privilege" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the possession of a special right, advantage, or honor. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely employed across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While generally neutral to formal in register, it's essential to avoid using it when describing basic rights. Alternatives such as "have the honor of" or "be fortunate enough" may be suitable depending on the context. Remember to express genuine gratitude and avoid misusing the phrase in mundane situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be privileged to

This is a direct variation, changing the verb structure while retaining similar meaning.

have the honor of

Specifically emphasizes the respect and esteem associated with the opportunity.

be granted the right

Emphasizes the formal permission or entitlement received.

enjoy the benefit

Focuses on the advantage gained rather than the honor or special permission.

be entitled to

Implies a legal or moral right to something.

possess the advantage

Highlights the advantageous position one holds.

be at liberty to

Focuses on the freedom and permission to act.

be fortunate enough

Stresses the luck or good fortune associated with the opportunity.

have access to

Emphasizes the ability to use or obtain something.

be in a position to

Highlights the capability and opportunity stemming from a particular situation.

FAQs

How can I use "have the privilege" in a sentence?

You can use "have the privilege" to express gratitude or recognition of a special opportunity. For instance, "I "have the privilege" of working with talented individuals."

What's a formal alternative to "have the privilege"?

A formal alternative could be "have the honor of", which emphasizes respect and esteem associated with the opportunity.

Is it appropriate to use "have the privilege" in all situations?

No, it is not appropriate in all situations. Avoid using "have the privilege" when describing situations that are basic rights or necessities. Instead, consider using phrases like "grateful for" or "fortunate to have".

What does it mean to "have the privilege" of doing something?

To ""have the privilege"" of doing something means to have a special advantage, opportunity, or honor that is not available to everyone.