have it in for

Idioms and Phrases

Intend to harm, especially because of a grudge. For example, Ever since he called the police about their dog, the neighbors have had it in for Tom . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

It plays straight into the hands of those supporters only too willing to cry "corruption" or feel referees "have it in" for their particular club.

From BBC

It isn’t until he is nearly assassinated by a remorseless sniper that he seems to understand why the aliens have it in for him, though he doesn’t tell Jin the reason.

From New York Times

That PAC sunk $10 million into the race; half of it came from Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, the villain twins of the Facebook saga, who seemed to have it in for Porter on a personal level.

From Slate

Sounds like you really have it in for Republicans.

From Los Angeles Times

Harry appears to really have it in for his stepmother, Camilla, Queen Consort, the wife and longtime lover of his father.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• aggressive
• antagonistic
• bellicose
• combative
• contentious
• hostile
• ornery
• quarrelsome