a courtesy table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a courtesy table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a table set up for the purpose of providing complimentary items or services, often at events or gatherings. Example: "At the conference, there was a courtesy table offering free refreshments and informational brochures for attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"It's a courtesy table," Ms. Jansen said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

They were not given a seat at the table as a courtesy.

Huffington Post

It's a courtesy".

The New Yorker

This is a courtesy call.

The New Yorker

You may think this is being done as a courtesy.

The New York Times - Tech

At one point, Anne Natalie Portmann) paid her a courtesy call.

The New Yorker

It's a courtesy to rights holders".

The New York Times - Sports

Processing was done as a courtesy.

The New York Times

The courtesy is a courtesy to our desire to honor differences, without sacrificing all our other values to that honor.

The New Yorker

It’s a courtesy but also a discipline.”.

Forbes

-Chuang-tzu There is a courtesy of the heart.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a "courtesy table", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being offered as a courtesy. Be specific about the items or services available at the table.

Common error

Avoid using "a courtesy table" when a more specific term is appropriate. For instance, if the table solely offers refreshments, "refreshment table" is more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a courtesy table" functions as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of table. According to Ludwig's examples, it refers to a table set up to offer complimentary items or services. The phrase clearly defines a table's purpose, emphasizing its role in providing a courtesy.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a courtesy table" is a noun phrase referring to a table offering complimentary items or services, as confirmed by Ludwig. While grammatically correct, it is a relatively rare phrase. It's generally used in neutral to professional contexts, across news, media, science and wiki. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the specific items or services offered. Alternatives like "complimentary table" or "hospitality table" can be used for clarity or emphasis depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complimentary table

Replaces "courtesy" with "complimentary", emphasizing the free nature of the items or services offered.

hospitality table

Focuses on the welcoming and accommodating aspect of the table.

welcome table

Emphasizes the welcoming function of the table, often at events.

information table

Highlights the provision of information as the primary purpose.

refreshment table

Specifies that the table offers refreshments.

service table

Broadly refers to a table offering a service of some kind.

courtesy booth

Uses "booth" instead of "table", implying a more enclosed or structured setup.

freebies table

Informal term emphasizing the availability of free items.

giveaway table

Similar to "freebies table", focusing on the distribution of free items.

help desk

Implies the table is staffed to provide assistance or information.

FAQs

What is the purpose of "a courtesy table"?

A "courtesy table" is typically set up to provide complimentary items or services, often at events or gatherings, to enhance the experience of attendees.

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

You can use alternatives like "complimentary table", "hospitality table", or "information table" depending on the context.

Is "a courtesy table" the same as a welcome table?

While both offer hospitality, a welcome table specifically focuses on greeting and assisting guests upon arrival, whereas "a courtesy table" may offer a broader range of complimentary items or services.

Where might I encounter "a courtesy table"?

You might find "a courtesy table" at conferences, weddings, or other events where organizers want to provide conveniences such as refreshments, information, or small gifts to attendees.