Better Way to Say ‘I am having a question’ in English

If you say “I am having a question,” many native speakers will notice something sounds slightly off. The direct, correct, and natural way to express this is “I have a question.” The verb “have” is a stative verb when it means “possess” or “own,” and stative verbs are not usually used in the continuous (progressive) form. “I am having” is reserved for actions or experiences, such as “I am having dinner” or “I am having a good time.” For questions, ideas, or problems, stick with the simple present: “I have a question.”

Why “I am having a question” Is Incorrect

English verbs fall into two main categories: action verbs and stative verbs. Action verbs describe activities (run, eat, write) and can be used in continuous tenses. Stative verbs describe states, feelings, or possession (know, believe, own, have) and are rarely used in continuous forms.

“Have” is a stative verb when it means “possess” or “hold.” A question is something you possess mentally, not an action you are performing. Therefore, “I have a question” is grammatically correct, while “I am having a question” is a common error made by learners whose native languages use continuous forms differently.

Common Confusion: “Having” as an Action

To make things trickier, “have” can be an action verb in certain contexts. Compare these examples:

• Stative (possession): I have a car. / I have a question. (Not “I am having a car.”)
• Action (experience or activity): I am having lunch. / I am having a party. / I am having a baby. (These are correct because they describe ongoing actions or experiences.)

This dual nature of “have” is why many learners mistakenly apply the continuous form to all uses. Remember: if you can replace “have” with “possess” or “hold,” use the simple present.

Comparison Table: “Have” vs. “Am Having”

Natural Examples for Real Situations

Here are examples of how native speakers naturally express the idea of having a question in different contexts.

In a Classroom or Meeting

• “Excuse me, I have a question about the homework.”
• “Before we move on, I have a quick question.”
• “Does anyone have a question before the test?”

In an Email

• “Dear Mr. Chen, I have a question regarding the invoice.”
• “I hope this email finds you well. I have a question about the schedule.”
• “Please let me know if you have any questions.”

In Casual Conversation

• “Hey, I have a question for you.”
• “Can I ask you something? I have a question about your trip.”
• “I have a question, but it might sound silly.”

In Customer Service

• “Hi, I have a question about my order.”
• “I have a question regarding the return policy.”
• “Do you have a question about your account?”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are the most frequent errors learners make with “have a question,” along with corrections.

Mistake 1: Using “am having” for questions

Incorrect: I am having a question about the price.
Correct: I have a question about the price.

Mistake 2: Using “am having” for problems

Incorrect: I am having a problem with my computer. (This is actually correct if the problem is ongoing, but many learners overuse it.)
Better: I have a problem with my computer. (Simple statement of fact.)
Also correct: I am having a problem with my computer right now. (Describes an ongoing issue.)

Mistake 3: Confusing “have” with “having” in formal writing

Incorrect: I am having a request for you.
Correct: I have a request for you.

Mistake 4: Using “am having” in questions

Incorrect: Are you having a question?
Correct: Do you have a question?

Better Alternatives and When to Use Them

While “I have a question” is the most direct and common phrase, there are situations where you might want to vary your language. Here are some alternatives and the contexts where they work best.

Formal or Professional Contexts

• “I would like to ask a question.” – Polite and formal, good for meetings or emails to superiors.
• “I have an inquiry.” – Very formal, often used in customer service or official correspondence.
• “May I ask a question?” – Polite request, suitable for classrooms or formal discussions.

Informal or Casual Contexts

• “Can I ask you something?” – Very common in everyday conversation.
• “I’ve got a question.” – Casual, common in British and American English.
• “Quick question.” – Used to signal a short, simple question.

When You Want to Be Specific

• “I have a question about the deadline.” – Direct and clear.
• “I have a question regarding the payment.” – Slightly more formal.
• “I have a question concerning the contract.” – Formal, used in legal or business contexts.

Mini Practice Section

Test your understanding with these four questions. Choose the correct option, then check the answers below.

Question 1

Which sentence is correct?

A. I am having a question about the menu.
B. I have a question about the menu.

Question 2

Fill in the blank: “Excuse me, _______ a question about the schedule?”

A. do you have
B. are you having

Question 3

Which sentence is correct in a formal email?

A. I am having a question regarding your invoice.
B. I have a question regarding your invoice.

Question 4

Is this sentence correct? “I am having a wonderful time at the party.”

A. Yes
B. No

Answers

Answer 1: B. “I have a question about the menu.” is correct.
Answer 2: A. “Do you have a question about the schedule?” is correct.
Answer 3: B. “I have a question regarding your invoice.” is correct for formal writing.
Answer 4: A. Yes, this is correct because “having a wonderful time” describes an ongoing experience, not possession.

FAQ: Common Questions About “I am having a question”

1. Is “I am having a question” ever correct in English?

No, not in standard English. The only exception is in very informal, playful speech where someone might say “I’m having a question moment” as a joke, but this is not grammatically correct and should be avoided in writing or formal situations.

2. Why do some native speakers say “I’m having” for other things?

Native speakers use “I’m having” for experiences, meals, events, and difficulties. For example, “I’m having dinner,” “I’m having a party,” and “I’m having trouble” are all correct because they describe ongoing actions or experiences, not possession.

3. What should I say instead of “I am having a question”?

Always say “I have a question.” If you want to be more polite, say “I would like to ask a question” or “May I ask a question?” For casual situations, “Can I ask you something?” or “I’ve got a question” work well.

4. Is it okay to use “I am having” in an email?

Only if you are describing an ongoing experience. For example, “I am having difficulty accessing the file” is correct. But “I am having a question” is incorrect in any email. Use “I have a question” or “I have an inquiry” instead.

Final Tip for English Learners

The key to mastering this point is to remember the difference between stative and action verbs. When “have” means “possess” or “hold” (including holding a question in your mind), use the simple present. When “have” means “experience” or “participate in,” the continuous form is possible. Practice by thinking about whether you are describing a state or an action. With a little practice, “I have a question” will become automatic.

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