Have at it

have at (someone or something)

1. To strike or attack someone or something. The two boys had at each other until the teacher arrived to break up the fight. Jacob had at the man with a series of blows to his face. Your hands are all bruised up because you had at an obnoxious drunk guy at the bar last night.

2. To attempt or try to do something. Now that finals are over, I need to have at cleaning up my room. You drive a stick, right? Can I have at it one of these days? I'd like to learn. Let me have at beating the boss on this level—I bet I can do it!

3. To do something with energy and enthusiasm. It didn't take long for the kids to have at the cupcakes I'd set out. If you want to paint, have at it! All the supplies are still out. OK, interns, here's all the paperwork that needs to be filed by the end of the day. Have at it!

See also: have

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

Have at it.

Start doing it.; Start eating your food. John: Here's your hamburger. Have at it. Jane: Thanks. Where's the mustard? John: Did you notice? The driveway needs sweeping. Jane: Here's the broom. Have at it.

See also: have

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.