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3. able to get a word in edgewise

able to get a word in edgewise

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able to get a word in edgewise

Able to speak despite other people dominating the conversation (hence the image of squeezing words in "edgewise"—sideways). Usually used in the negative. When Mary came up for air in her monologue, I was finally able to get a word in edgewise about my own weekend! The third-tier candidate wasn't able to get a word in edgewise at the debate.

See also: able, edgewise, get, word