The spelling of "hadst a vision" may seem confusing, but it is actually quite simple when broken down phonetically. "Hadst" is pronounced as "hædst" (h-ad-st), with the "h" being pronounced, and the "a" and "d" being separated. "A" is pronounced as "uh", and "st" is pronounced as "st". "Vision" is pronounced as "vɪʒən" (v-i-j-ə-n), with the "v" being pronounced as normal, and "i" as "ih". The "j" sound is like the "s" sound in "pleasure", and the final "n" is pronounced as "n".
"Hadst a vision" is a phrase derived from archaic English and can be dissected into two main components: "hadst" and "a vision." "Hadst" is the second person singular past tense form of the verb "have" in Early Modern English. It signifies possession or experiencing something in the past. "A vision" refers to an experience or perception of something that is imagined or seen while awake, often with spiritual, prophetic, or mystical connotations.
When combined, the phrase "hadst a vision" typically refers to the act of having perceived or experienced a revelation, insight, or extraordinary visual occurrence in the past. It implies that the individual to whom it is addressed supposedly encountered a significant and often extraordinary sensory event. The nature of this vision can vary widely, including vivid dreams, premonitions, divine apparitions, or moments of heightened insight or inspiration.
The phrase is predominantly used in historical or literary contexts, particularly in works from the Middle English period up until the 17th century. It is notable for its Shakespearean usage. While its archaic usage has declined in contemporary English, it is still occasionally employed in artistic or poetic works to evoke a sense of medieval or Elizabethan language and atmosphere.