have it v. phr. 1. To hear or get news; understand.
I have it on the best authority that we will be paid for our work next week. 2. To do something in a certain way.
Make up your mind, because you can't have it both ways. You must either stay home or come with us. Bobby must have it his way and play the game by his rules. 3. To claim; say.
Rumor has it that the school burned down. Gossip has it that Mary is getting married. The man is very smart the way his family has it, but I think he's silly. 4. To allow it.
■ Usually used with "will" or "would" in negative sentences.
Mary wanted to give the party at her house, but her mother wouldn't have it. Synonym: HEAR OF, STAND FOR.
5. To win.
When the senators vote, the ayes will have it. 6. To get or find the answer; think of how to do something.
"I have it!" said John to Mary. "We can buy Mother a nice comb for her birthday." 7. informal To have an (easy, good, rough, soft) time; have (certain kinds of) things happen to you; be treated in a (certain) way by luck or life.
Everyone liked Joe and he had it good until he got sick. Mary has it easy; she doesn't have to work. 8. See: AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT.
[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲