Question 1

What does "have it out for" mean?

Accepted Answer

To be persistently and unfairly hostile toward a specific person; to bear a grudge against someone.

Question 2

How do you use "have it out for" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

My little brother is convinced that his football coach has it out for him because he never gets to start.

Question 3

Is "have it out for" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"have it out for" is informal — used mainly in casual conversation. Primarily American English. Functionally identical to the British 'have it in for.' Often perceived as slightly more intense or personal than the British equivalent. Used in the same contexts — bosses, teachers, rivals — where someone appears to target another unfairly.

have it out for

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