The phrase "has gander" is often used to mean taking a look or brief examination, but the spelling can be tricky. The first word, "has," is pronounced /hæz/ with the "s" sounding like a "z". The second word, "gander," is pronounced /ˈɡændər/ with a soft "g" like in "gentle" and an "a" sound like in "cat." When combined, "has gander" is pronounced /hæz ˈɡændər/. If you're ever unsure of the spelling or pronunciation of a word, consulting a dictionary is always a good idea.
"Has gander" is a colloquial phrase that originates from British and Irish English and is used to describe taking a quick look or glance at something. It is commonly used in informal conversations to express the act of briefly observing or assessing a particular object, situation, or person. The term is derived from the noun "gander," which refers to a male goose. Just as a goose swiftly looks around its surroundings, taking in its surroundings with a quick movement of its head, "has gander" signifies a similar action when a person takes a brief moment to examine or survey something swiftly.
This phrase is often employed in a playful or light-hearted manner, indicating a casual approach to observing or inspecting something without investing too much time or effort. It can be used in a wide range of contexts, such as checking out an item in a store, glancing at a piece of written material, or scrutinizing a situation without delving into its finer details. The phrase "has gander" does not necessarily imply a deep analysis or investigation but rather suggests a cursory evaluation or a momentary assessment. Its colloquial nature makes it a useful expression in informal conversations to convey a swift and casual observation of something or someone.