a low table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a low table" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a table that is close to the ground or shorter in height compared to other tables. Example: She placed her tea cup on the low table in front of her and sat cross-legged on the floor.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A low table is moved into the kitchen area.

The New York Times - Magazine

A low table holds a sprawling Lego construction in progress.

The New Yorker

On a low table nearby rested a solitary Bible.

The New York Times - Magazine

There, perched on square stools around a low table, were several men playing cards — and Katja.

The New York Times - Travel

Both are updates of the classic experience of sitting on pillows around a low table.

The New York Times

We knelt at a low table while her mother served us tiny portions of beautiful things.

The Guardian - Books

The lobby of All Caring was decorated with anonymous good taste: wingback chairs, a low table.

The New Yorker

He sat at a low table and sprang up to greet all comers.

The New Yorker

Just in front, a low table is decorated with little vases filled with plastic flowers.

The New Yorker

The photos ended, Dolenz left, and Nez sat at a low table for the signing.

The New Yorker

The five usually sit around a low table on a platform covered with a straw mat.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene, use "a low table" to establish a casual or intimate atmosphere, especially when paired with floor seating or cushions.

Common error

Avoid using "a low table" when a higher table is clearly more appropriate for the activity, such as dining with standard chairs. Always consider the user's posture and intended purpose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a low table" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig shows it describing a physical object with a specific height. The Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

13%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a low table" is a grammatically correct and widely used noun phrase that serves to describe a table that is short in height. Ludwig confirms its correctness. As shown in the examples, this phrase appears in a variety of contexts, primarily within news and media, with a neutral register and descriptive purpose. When using this phrase, consider alternative options like "coffee table" or "side table" to provide greater specificity. Remember to ensure its usage fits the overall tone and context of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

coffee table

Refers to a specific type of low table often placed in living rooms.

short table

Highlights the height of the table as being less than average.

side table

Indicates a small table positioned beside a chair or sofa.

end table

Similar to a side table but specifically at the end of a sofa.

small table

Emphasizes the overall size of the table rather than just its height.

floor table

A table designed to be used while sitting on the floor.

ground-level table

Specifically describes a table very close to the ground.

Japanese tea table

A specific type of low table used in traditional Japanese settings.

tatami table

Refers to a low table typically used on tatami mats.

ottoman

While primarily for seating or resting feet, ottomans can sometimes function as low tables.

FAQs

How can I describe "a low table" in more detail?

You can specify the material (e.g., "a low wooden table"), shape (e.g., "a low round table"), or style (e.g., "a low Japanese table") to provide a clearer image.

What's the difference between "a low table" and "coffee table"?

While a coffee table is generally a low table, the term specifically implies its use in a living room setting, often for placing drinks, books, or decorative items. "A low table" is more general.

Is it appropriate to use "a low table" in formal writing?

Yes, "a low table" is perfectly acceptable in formal writing as long as it accurately describes the object. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and context.

What are some alternative terms for "a low table"?

Depending on the specific type of table, you could use terms like "side table", "end table", or "tatami table" to provide a more precise description.