have chemistry

Meaning

This expression refers to a strong, natural, and often instant connection or mutual attraction between two people. While most commonly used in romantic contexts to describe a spark or physical attraction, it can also describe great rapport between friends, actors, or coworkers. The tone is warm, positive, and casual.

Examples

• They went on a blind date but unfortunately didn't have any chemistry.

  They went on a blind date but unfortunately didn't have any chemistry.

• The two lead actors have amazing chemistry on screen.

  The two lead actors have amazing chemistry on screen.

• I like him, but I just don't think we have chemistry.

  I like him, but I just don't think we have chemistry.

• You can tell right away when a couple has great chemistry.

  You can tell right away when a couple has great chemistry.

• We had chemistry from the moment we started talking at the party.

  We had chemistry from the moment we started talking at the party.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ They have a lot of chemistries.

  ✓ They have a lot of chemistry.

  In this idiomatic context, 'chemistry' is an uncountable noun and cannot be pluralized.

• ✗ I feel chemistry with her.

  ✓ I have chemistry with her.

  While you can say 'there is chemistry between us,' the standard personal idiom is to 'have chemistry' with someone.

Related Expressions

Practice

• They are dating, but they don't seem to ___.

  💡 They lack a natural connection or spark.

  Show answer

  have chemistry

• The main characters in the movie had incredible ___.

  💡 Just the noun representing their mutual connection.

  Show answer

  chemistry