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Glite Dictionary
to have at

to have at

26 7.9
To start something quickly and with a lot of energy
  • phrasal verb
  • Informal
translation icon : ponerse a
  • When the boss said we could tackle the new plan, we all shouted, have at it!

The universe threw every last thing it had at us and we got through it.

Examples

Synonyms

to attack
vsto have at
71 3.2

To begin working on a task with energy and determination

is more informal and means starting with lively enthusiasm
to go at it
vsto have at
  • Informal
56 6.7

Act with a lot of energy, often fighting, arguing, or working hard

is more informal and less aggressive in tone
to dive in
vsto have at
  • Informal
23 3.7

Start doing something quickly and with a lot of energy

is broader and includes dealing with tasks energetically
to get up and at 'em
vsto have at
  • Informal
1 7.7

To get out of bed and start the day with energy

is about beginning tasks energetically rather than merely getting up

Antonyms

to avoid
∞ 1.0

To stay away from something or not do it to stop something bad from happening

to shy away from
41 4.6

Avoid doing something because you feel afraid or unsure

How Energetic

to attack
∞ 1.3
to tackle
204 3.4
to have at
  • Informal
26 7.9
to have a go at
  • UK
11 3.4
to start
∞ 1.0

Surface Forms

have at infinitive
having at present participle
has at third person singular
had at past
had at past participle

Morphology

have + at

The meanings 'to attack' or 'to begin energetically' are not directly derivable from the literal senses of 'have' (possess/experience) and 'at' (location/direction), though the particle 'at' gives a vague directional/completive cue that can hint at directing action toward something. Because the semantic link is partly metaphorical and usage-dependent (and differs across contexts like 'have at him' vs. 'have at it'), a learner who knows the words would only partially infer the sense and would likely need exposure to settle the exact meaning.

Etymology

Have at comes from the picture of someone shouting to hunting dogs or fighters to go for a target: the words have and at together were a loud command to 'attack' someone or something. That's why have at now means 'attack' or 'begin something with energy'.