To attack, attempt, or begin working on something energetically; used as an imperative invitation to proceed.
To attack something or someone, or to tell someone to go ahead and start.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To attack or challenge someone or something energetically (often as a battle cry or challenge).
"The two knights circled each other before crying 'have at thee!' and charging forward."
Have at thee, coward!
— William Shakespeare, 'Hamlet', Act 5 (archaic dueling language; widely appearing in Shakespeare's works)
Used as an invitation telling someone to proceed, begin, or help themselves to something.
"If you think you can fix the engine, have at it — I've been trying for two hours."
To direct your action at something — to set yourself against it.
To attack something or someone, or to tell someone to go ahead and start.
Often used as an imperative ('Have at it!' or 'Have at thee!' in archaic/literary contexts). 'Have at it' is a common American informal expression meaning 'go ahead, it's yours to deal with'. The archaic use ('have at thee') is from sword fighting. Both senses survive in modern English.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "have at" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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