have a say (in something)
To have an active and participatory role in making or influencing a decision about something. The best thing about working for a smaller company is that it finally feels like everyone has a say in how it should operate. You've decided to move the family to Alaska for a new job? Don't I have a say in the matter? We're all equals here, so everyone should have a say.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
have a say in
1. Also, have a voice in. Have the right or power to influence or make a decision about something. For example, I want to have a say in this matter, or Citizens want to have a voice in their local government. [c. 1600]
2. have one's say. Express one's views, as in As soon as I've had my say I'll sit down. [Late 1600s]
3. have the say. Be in command, as in The general has the say over which troops will be sent. [Early 1800s]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.