Have Something Done

The structure “have something done” is an important part of English grammar, often used to describe actions that are performed by someone else for the subject. This guide will explain what this structure is, how and when it is used, provide examples, and include exercises test your knowledge.

What is “Have Something Done”?

“Have something done” is a causative construction used to indicate that the subject arranges for someone else to do something. The focus is on the action and the fact that it is performed by another person, not by the subject.

Structure

The structure is: Subject + have + object + past participle

Examples:

• She had her car repaired.
• We are having the house painted.

How is “Have Something Done” Used?

This structure is used to show that someone arranges for a task or service to be completed by another person. It is commonly used in both everyday and formal English to describe services, repairs, or any action done by someone else.

Common Uses of “Have Something Done”

1.Services and Repairs:

• Example: “I had my hair cut yesterday.”

2. Arranging Professional Tasks:

• Example: “They will have their website designed by a professional.”

3. Unexpected or Unpleasant Situations:

• Example: “He had his wallet stolen.”

When to Use “Have Something Done”

This construction is typically used when:

• You want to emphasize that the action is done by someone else.
• You are referring to services or tasks arranged by the subject.
• You are describing an action that happened to the subject, often unexpectedly.

Examples of “Have Something Done”

1. Service:
   • She had her nails done for the wedding.
2. Repair:
   • He had his car serviced last week.
3. Professional Task:
   • We had our garden landscaped by an expert.
4. Unexpected Event:
   • They had their window broken during the storm.
5. Routine Task:
   • I have my groceries delivered every week.

Have Something Done Exercises

Complete the sentences using the correct form of “have something done”:

1. She ________ (her hair/cut) last Saturday.
2. We ________ (our house/paint) next month.
3. He ________ (his phone/repair) yesterday.
4. They ________ (their wedding photos/take) by a professional.
5. I ________ (my teeth/check) twice a year.
6. He ________ (his car/wash) every week.
7. We ________ (our garden/clean) after the party.
8. She ________ (her dress/make) for the event.
9. They ________ (their internet connection/fix) last week.
10. I ________ (my watch/repair) soon.

Answers:

1. had her hair cut
2. are having our house painted
3. had his phone repaired
4. had their wedding photos taken
5. have my teeth checked
6. has his car washed
7. had our garden cleaned
8. had her dress made
9. had their internet connection fixed
10. am having my watch repaired

Understanding and using the “have something done” structure will enhance your ability to describe services and actions performed by others in a clear and effective way. Use this guide to master this essential grammar point and improve your English communication skills!