word has it

USAGE SUMMARY

'Word has it' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is generally used to refer to gossip or news that one has heard from an unknown source. Example sentence: Word has it that the company is planning to relocate to a new office.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In fact, word has it that Curb Your Enthusiasm is going to be shooting its next season soon.

Huffington Post

(Alas, advance word has it that they avoid citrus).

The New York Times - Food

Word has it that the 2020 Congress might be different.

The Washington Post

Mr. Vick, word has it, was shaken and contrite.

The New York Times - Arts

Word has it that Clegg avoided the McMuffins, opting for a coffee instead.

The Guardian

Q. Word has it that your "Asher Lev" audition in Connecticut didn't go well.

The New York Times

Word has it she's scouting properties in Houston and on both coasts.

The New York Times

(Word has it you can also pick up a signal in Tijuana).

The New York Times - Travel

Word has it that the culprit is a psychopathic killer, Paul Bliss, a rising underworld star.

Independent

Word has it the same fate has befallen the walnut in Italy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Word has it that Massachusetts kicked in about $145 million in incentives to recruit GE.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "word has it" to introduce information you've heard from an unspecified source, especially when you want to convey a sense of informal communication or rumor.

Common error

Avoid using "word has it" when presenting factual or verified information. This phrase implies a degree of uncertainty and should not be used to introduce established facts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "word has it" functions as an introductory expression, signaling that the information being presented is based on hearsay or rumor rather than direct knowledge. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to convey gossip or news from an unknown source.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "word has it" is a common English phrase used to introduce information that is rumored or heard from an unspecified source. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and generally used to share gossip or unverified news. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to signal uncertainty and create intrigue. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overstating certainty when using "word has it", ensuring it aligns with the informal and speculative nature of the information being conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rumor has it

Emphasizes the unconfirmed nature of the information, implying it's based on hearsay.

the grapevine says

Suggests the information is circulating informally through a network of people.

sources say

Implies that the information comes from one or more unnamed sources with some level of authority.

it is rumored

Formally presents the information as a rumor, often implying wider circulation.

the buzz is

Highlights the current excitement or talk surrounding a particular topic.

I hear that

Indicates the speaker's personal knowledge of the information, though the source remains vague.

it's been said

Presents the information as something that has been generally acknowledged or repeated.

allegedly

Indicates that the information is claimed but not yet proven.

reportedly

Suggests the information is based on reports, though the reliability is not guaranteed.

the talk is

Highlights that certain information is currently being discussed.

FAQs

How do I use "word has it" in a sentence?

You can use "word has it" to introduce a rumor or piece of information you've heard from an unspecified source. For example, "Word has it that the company is planning a merger."

What can I say instead of "word has it"?

You can use alternatives like "rumor has it", "sources say", or "it is rumored" depending on the context.

Is "word has it" formal or informal?

"Word has it" is generally considered informal. It's best suited for casual conversations or less formal writing. In professional or academic settings, consider using more direct or verifiable language.

What's the difference between "word has it" and "I heard"?

"Word has it" suggests the information is circulating more widely, while "I heard" implies the information came to you directly from a single, though possibly unnamed, source.