have a headache

Meaning

This expression is used to say that you are experiencing pain in your head. It is a very common physical complaint, and the phrase is used neutrally in both casual and professional settings to explain why you might need rest or medicine.

Examples

• I have a headache because I didn't drink enough water today.

  I have a headache because I didn't drink enough water today.

• If you have a headache, you should take some medicine and rest.

  If you have a headache, you should take some medicine and rest.

• She had a terrible headache last night and went to bed early.

  She had a terrible headache last night and went to bed early.

• The loud music is giving me a headache.

  The loud music is giving me a headache.

• Do you still have a headache, or do you feel better?

  Do you still have a headache, or do you feel better?

Common Mistakes

• ✗ My head is paining.

  ✓ I have a headache.

  While 'pain' can be a verb, native speakers almost always say 'I have a headache' or 'My head hurts' instead of 'My head is paining'.

• ✗ I am having headache.

  ✓ I have a headache.

  Use the simple present 'have' for physical conditions, and always include the indefinite article 'a'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• I need to turn down the lights because I ___.

  💡 Use the present tense.

  Show answer

  have a headache

• He ___ all afternoon, so he didn't watch the movie.

  💡 Use the past tense.

  Show answer

  had a headache