Have the floor: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Have the floor” mean?

"Have the floor" means to have the right to speak or be heard in a meeting or discussion.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

After the presentation, she had the floor to answer questions.

After the presentation, she had the floor to answer questions.

Example

He patiently waited for his turn to have the floor and share his ideas.

He patiently waited for his turn to have the floor and share his ideas.

Example

The chairman gave her permission to have the floor and present her proposal

The chairman gave her permission to have the floor and present her proposal

Is “Have the floor” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Have the floor” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Have the floor” effectively in context?

You can use "Have the Floor" to indicate that someone has the right to speak or be heard in a meeting or discussion. It emphasizes the importance of giving someone the opportunity to express their ideas or opinions. For example, if you are leading a meeting and want to give someone a chance to share their thoughts, you might say, 'John, you have the floor.'

• 1. Meeting

  During the board meeting, she had the floor to present her findings.

  During the board meeting, she had the floor to present her findings.

• 2. Discussion

  In the debate, each candidate had a chance to have the floor and state their arguments.

  In the debate, each candidate had a chance to have the floor and state their arguments.

• 3. Presentation

  After the keynote speech, the audience had the opportunity to have the floor and ask questions.

  After the keynote speech, the audience had the opportunity to have the floor and ask questions.

Similar phrases to “Have the floor”:

Take the floor

To assume the role of speaking or presenting in a meeting or discussion

Example

He took the floor and began his presentation.

He took the floor and began his presentation.

Speak up

To express one's opinion or ideas in a meeting or discussion

Example

Don't be afraid to speak up and share your thoughts.

Don't be afraid to speak up and share your thoughts.

Address the group

To speak to a group of people in a formal setting

Example

He addressed the group and outlined his plan.

He addressed the group and outlined his plan.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Have the floor” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Have the Floor" is unknown.

Is “Have the floor” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Have the Floor" is a common expression in everyday conversation, especially in formal settings such as meetings, conferences, and debates. It is used to establish order and ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to speak.

What tone does “Have the floor” have?

"Have the Floor" conveys a tone of respect and authority. It is often used by someone in a position of leadership or authority to grant permission for someone else to speak.

Can “Have the floor” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Have the Floor" is a formal expression typically used in professional or official settings. It is not commonly used in informal conversations or casual situations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is usually used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She "had the floor" to present her proposal.' However, in certain contexts where the phrase is well-known, it can be used alone to imply that someone has the right to speak, such as saying 'You have the floor.'

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• be given the floor
• be granted the floor
• be allowed to speak
• be authorized to speak

Antonyms

• not have the floor
• be silenced
• be ignored
• be interrupted