20 Dec 2002

There is little logical reason for the presence in the English language of the verb construction "have got", but it's been with us for more than two centuries, so we're stuck with it.
Examples:
"I have got to go." (or, "I've got to go.")
"I have to go"

Either example is accepted, because there isn't a simple alternative, but the construction is confusing.
Neither "have" nor "got" has a clear definition in this context. What is the meaning of "got" in the first sentence? If I meant "I have a need to go", then the meaning of "got", a past tense verb, must be "a need", a noun construction.
"Have got" to mean "have gotten" is also accepted, although it shouldn't be.

However, it is an error to use "have got" or "has got" to indicate possession.
Examples:
Wrong:
-- "I have got $10." (or "I've got $10.")
-- "He has got a truck." (or "He's got a truck")
Correct:
-- "I have $10."
-- "He has a truck."

Rule: Use "have" or "has", not "have got" or "has got", to indicate possession.
Suggestion: Don't use "have got" at all.

- Andrew Hadley

© 2002 Halway Systems

BACK