get a word in — to manage to say something during a conversation, especially when others are talking a lot
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to manage to say something during a conversation, especially when others are talking a lot
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɡet ə wɜːrd ɪn/
Example Sentences
- My mom talks so fast on the phone that I can't get a word in!
- During the meeting, the boss barely let anyone get a word in.
- My chatty neighbor talks for hours - I'm lucky if I can get a word in!
get a word in
VERB[/ɡet ə wɜːrd ɪn/]
to manage to say something during a conversation, especially when others are talking a lot
to manage to say something during a conversation, especially when others are talking a lot
Finally heard when she gets a word in!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrasal verb combines the verb 'get' (to obtain or achieve), the noun 'word' (a unit of speech), and the preposition 'in' (into or within). The phrase developed to mean inserting speech into a conversation, literally 'to put a word in,' evolving to express the act of interjecting or contributing to a discussion.
Breakdown
get (to obtain; to succeed in doing) + a word (a single utterance or remark) + in (into; within). The preposition 'in' transforms the sense of 'get' to mean 'to manage to insert or contribute.'
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My mom talks so fast on the phone that I can't get a word in!”
“During the meeting, the boss barely let anyone get a word in.”
“My chatty neighbor talks for hours - I'm lucky if I can get a word in!”
“He finally managed to get a word in and asked about the schedule.”
📚Related Words
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