Can i have a word vs Can we have a word

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Can I have a word?' is used when one person wants to speak privately with another person, while 'Can we have a word?' is used when a group of people wants to speak with someone. The choice between 'I' and 'we' depends on the number of people involved in the conversation.

Last updated: March 26, 2024 • 2462 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used when one person wants to speak privately with another person.

"Can i have a word"

This phrase is used when one person wants to have a private conversation with another person.

Examples:

Can I have a word with you in private?
Excuse me, can I have a word with you for a moment?
Can I have a word with you about the project?
I need to talk to you, can I have a word?
Can I have a word with you outside?

Alternatives:

Can we talk?
Can I speak with you?
Can I have a private conversation with you?
Can we have a private chat?
Can we discuss something in private?

This phrase is correct and commonly used when a group of people wants to speak with someone.

"Can we have a word"

This phrase is used when a group of people wants to have a conversation with someone.

Examples:

Can we have a word with you about the project?
Excuse me, can we have a word with you for a moment?
Can we have a word with you in private?
We need to discuss something, can we have a word?
Can we have a word with you outside?

Show examples from the web [+]

And can we have a word downstairs?
Colonel, can we have a word outside?
Can we have a word outside?
Lynn Benfield, can we have a word?
Dr Shannon, can we have a word, please?
Madeline, can we have a word, please
Can we have a word in private, captain?
Can we have a word with you?
Can we have a word with you in your office?
Mrs. Stromming, can we have a word?
Sheila, can we have a word for a moment?
Sarah, can we have a word in the conference room?
And can we have a word with the council about her recycling bin?
Artemus, guys, can we have a word with you out front?

Alternatives:

Can we talk?
Can we discuss something?
Can we speak with you?
Can we have a chat?
Can we have a private conversation?

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Can i have a word vs Can we have a word

"Can i have a word"

"Can we have a word"

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