The phrase “Can I have a word with you?” is a way of asking someone if you can speak with them privately, usually about something important or sensitive. It is equivalent to saying, “Can we talk?” or “Can we discuss something?”
Here are two examples in sentences:
Example 1:
Before the meeting started, the boss looked at Jane and asked, “Can I have a word with you?” He needed to discuss something confidential with her.
Example 2:
After class, the teacher said to Tom, “Can I have a word with you?” He wanted to talk about Tom’s recent test results.
Now let’s see it in conversation:
Example 3:
Anna: Hey, John. Can I have a word with you?
John: Of course, Anna. What’s up?
Example 4:
David: Mr. Smith, can I have a word with you after the meeting?
Mr. Smith: Sure, David. Let’s talk in my office.
So, when someone asks, “Can I have a word with you?“, they are requesting a moment of your time to discuss something. It could be something serious, important, or just a matter that they prefer to discuss privately.
