Table a motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Table a motion" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal settings, such as meetings or legislative contexts, to propose that a motion be formally presented for discussion or consideration. Example: "During the meeting, I would like to table a motion to increase the budget for the upcoming project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Alternatively, the opposition can table a motion of confidence in the Commons.

The Guardian

The Welsh and Scottish nationalists will table a motion calling for an immediate general election next week.

The Guardian

But if Cameron is going to table a motion, it is going to have to say something.

The Guardian

And he seems to have dropped the threat to table a motion of no confidence in the PM personally.

The Guardian

Stephen Twigg, the shadow education secretary, said Labour would table a motion on the regulations when parliament returns in September.

The Guardian

Despite this, Palestine might try to table a motion to improve its prospects of statehood next month.

The Economist

He was the first MP to table a motion on apartheid, following his father's lead, as in many other aspects of his life.

The Guardian

Evan Harris, the former Lib Dem MP, and Lady Williams, are planning to table a motion in Birmingham demanding more changes to the health and social care bill.

The Guardian

Yesterday a gay rights group, Outrage! complained that one of the mayor's advisers had blocked its attempt to table a motion "regretting" his stance towards Dr Qaradawi.

The Guardian

Bridgen has changed his tune somewhat from yesterday, when he told journalists he was planning to table a motion of no confidence in Bercow.

The Guardian

But Bridgen also said that he had dropped the plan he announced yesterday to table a motion of no confidence in the speaker.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the motion is clearly worded and relevant to the agenda when you "table a motion".

Common error

Avoid using "table a motion" when you intend to postpone or discontinue discussion on a motion indefinitely. "Tabling" means to formally introduce it for discussion, not to suppress it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "table a motion" functions as a verb phrase indicating the formal act of presenting a motion for consideration. Ludwig AI confirms this usage aligns with standard English grammar. Examples show it used in diverse contexts, from political debates to organizational meetings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

5%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "table a motion" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the formal introduction of a motion for discussion and voting. As verified by Ludwig AI, its primary contexts are news and media, and formal business settings. When using the phrase, remember that it means to present a motion, not to postpone or suppress it. Alternatives such as "propose a motion" or "submit a motion" may be appropriate depending on the specific context. Using "table a motion" correctly enhances clarity and professionalism in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Propose a motion

Focuses on the act of suggesting the motion, slightly less formal.

Submit a motion

Emphasizes the action of officially handing over the motion for consideration.

Move a motion

Focuses on the act of initiating the formal process of considering the motion.

Present a motion

Highlights the act of making the motion known to the assembly.

Introduce a motion

Focuses on bringing the motion to the attention of the group.

Put forward a motion

Emphasizes the act of advancing or suggesting the motion.

Offer a motion

Highlights the act of providing the motion for consideration.

Advance a motion

Emphasizes the act of pushing the motion forward for consideration.

Lodge a motion

More formal and legalistic, suggesting official filing of the motion.

Bring forth a motion

A more archaic or dramatic way of presenting a motion.

FAQs

What does it mean to "table a motion"?

To "table a motion" means to formally present or introduce a proposal for discussion or consideration in a meeting or legislative body. It sets the stage for debate and voting on the matter.

How to use "table a motion" in a sentence?

Example: "The member will "table a motion" to amend the existing policy at the next meeting".

What can I say instead of "table a motion"?

You can use alternatives like "propose a motion", "submit a motion", or "present a motion" depending on the context.

Is "table a motion" the same as "shelve a motion"?

No, "table a motion" means to introduce it for discussion, while "shelve a motion" means to postpone or discontinue discussing it.