This is a common and useful expression in spoken English.  It also describes a certain type of stubborn personality.  It’s not really a good quality, but it’s a character trait that many people have.

If someone always has to “have the last word” it means that when that person is arguing, they never will admit that they lost.  They will keep arguing until the other person stops talking.  They need to be the person who is the final speaker.

Imagine a husband and wife having a silly argument about almost nothing.

The husband might be wrong but really stubborn.  His wife might say something like, “well, I really don’t agree with you, but I can’t really say anything because you always need to have the last word“.

Listen for this on TV and in movies.  Ask your native speaking friends or teacher about it.  It’s common and useful.  If someone won’t let you win an argument, you can ask, “why do you always get the last word?“

I hope you enjoyed that lesson! I am sure it will be helpful for you. In today's world, it's important to sound great when you speak English with native speakers. Click on the link for an amazing program to Learn a REAL American Accent