have
Meaning: To possess, own, or hold; used as an auxiliary verb for perfect tenses
The verb 'have' expresses possession or ownership, and functions as an auxiliary verb to form perfect tenses. It also appears in many common expressions relating to meals, experiences, and obligations. British English often uses 'have got' where American English uses just 'have' for possession.
Examples
- I have a meeting at noon. 我中午有个会议。Tengo una reunión al mediodía.正午に会議があります。정오에 회의가 있습니다.
- Have you ever been to Scotland? 你去过苏格兰吗?¿Has estado alguna vez en Escocia?スコットランドに行ったことはありますか?스코틀랜드에 가 본 적이 있나요?
- We have lived here for ten years. 我们在这里住了十年了。Hemos vivido aquí durante diez años.私たちはここに10年住んでいます。우리는 여기에 10년째 살고 있습니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Old English 'habban', from Proto-Germanic *habjaną meaning 'to hold' or 'to possess'. Related to Latin 'habēre'. One of the most versatile verbs in English, serving as both a main verb and auxiliary.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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