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have: actions

Meaning and typical expressions

We often use have + object to talk about actions and experiences, especially in an informal style.

  • Let’s have a drink.
  • I’m going to have a bath. (BrE)
  • I’ll have a think (BrE) and let you know what I decide.
  • Have a good time.

In expressions like these, have can be the equivalent of ‘eat’, ‘drink’, ‘enjoy’, ‘experience’ or many other things—the exact meaning depends on the following noun. Common expressions:

  • have breakfast / lunch / supper / dinner / tea / coffee / a drink / a meal
  • have a bath (BrE) / a wash / a shave / a shower (BrE)
  • have a rest / a lie-down (BrE) / a sleep / a dream
  • have a good time / a bad day / a nice evening / a day off / a holiday (BrE)
  • have a good journey / flight / trip, etc
  • have a talk / a chat / a word with somebody / a conversation / a disagreement / a row (BrE) / a quarrel / a fight
  • have a swim / a walk / a ride / a dance / a game of tennis, etc
  • have a try / a go (BrE)
  • have a look
  • have a baby (= give birth)
  • have difficulty / trouble (in) ...ing (something)
  • have an accident / an operation / a nervous breakdown

Note American English take a bath/shower / rest / swim / walk.

Have can also be used to mean ‘receive’ (e.g. I’ve had a phone call from Emma).

note

For other common structures in which nouns are used to talk about actions, (see here).

Grammar

In this structure, we make questions and negatives with do. Progressive forms are possible. Contractions and weak forms of have are not used.

  • Did you have a good time (not Had you a good time?)
  • I’m having a bad day.
  • I have lunch at 12.30 most days. (not I’ve lunch ...)