Meaning & use
have an attitude
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Meanings
phraseidiominformal
To behave in a way that is rude, hostile, or shows a lack of respect.
Grammar: Used as a verb phrase; often in the continuous: 'She is having an attitude.'
Patterns
- have an attitude
- have an attitude with someone
Don't have an attitude with me just because you're tired.
He's been having an attitude all day.
She got in trouble for having an attitude in class.
phraseidiom
To hold a particular opinion or way of thinking about something.
Grammar: Used more formally; often followed by 'about' or 'toward'.
Patterns
- have an attitude about something
- have an attitude toward something
She has a positive attitude about her new job.
They have a relaxed attitude toward deadlines.
Common combinations
- have a bad attitude
- He has a bad attitude about teamwork.
- have an attitude problem
- The manager said she has an attitude problem.
- have a positive attitude
- It helps to have a positive attitude when you study.
Synonyms and how they differ
- be rude
- Directly describes impolite behavior; 'have an attitude' is more about a general manner.
- be hostile
- Stronger and more formal; 'have an attitude' is informal and often milder.
Opposites
Commonly confused: have an attitude or attitude?
have an attitude vs attitude
'Attitude' alone can mean a good or bad way of thinking; 'have an attitude' often implies a negative one.
Practice
What does 'have an attitude' usually mean in informal talk?
Choose one answer.
In informal use, 'have an attitude' means acting rude or hostile; the other options do not match this common meaning.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “have an attitude”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.