Fixed expressions

Idioms

English fixed expressions — phrases whose meaning isn't obvious from the individual words. Each entry shows the meaning, an example sentence, and its register.

Idioms containing have, including its inflections. Clear word filter

Idioms Informal Neutral Formal

11 idioms

have a sweet tooth

CEFR A2

To have a strong liking for sugary food.

Informal

have a go

CEFR B1

to make an attempt at doing something

Informal

have a soft spot for someone

CEFR B1

To feel particular fondness or affection for a person or thing.

Informal

have a crack at

CEFR B2

to make an attempt at doing something

Informal

have a life of its own

CEFR B2

to develop or grow in a way that is no longer controlled by anyone

Informal

have a stab at

CEFR B2

to make an attempt at doing something, often something you're unsure about

Informal

have bigger fish to fry

CEFR B2

To have more important matters to deal with.

Informal

have several balls in the air

CEFR B2

to be managing multiple projects or commitments at once

Informal

have up one's sleeve

CEFR B2

to have a secret plan or advantage kept ready for later use

Informal

have your cake and eat it too

CEFR B2

to want two incompatible things at once

Informal

have a chip on your shoulder

CEFR C1

to carry lasting resentment and be easily offended because you feel you were treated unfairly

Informal

Idioms

have a sweet tooth

have a go

have a soft spot for someone

have a crack at

have a life of its own

have a stab at

have bigger fish to fry

have several balls in the air

have up one's sleeve

have your cake and eat it too

have a chip on your shoulder

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