at the first table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the first table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific location or position, often in a context involving seating arrangements or discussions. Example: "We will be discussing the project details at the first table during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

We ate a course at the first table and then moved to the next table for the next course, until we ran out of tables.

The Guardian

See that couple at the first table on the left?

The New Yorker

At the first table North jumped to six spades.

The New York Times

At the first table, South overcalled three no-trump.

The New York Times

At the first table, Wold (West) opened one heart.

The New York Times

At the first table Fernando Amaral (West) led the heart five.

The New York Times

At the first table, Delores and Marisol rev up their production line.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

At the first table-read, Winona was a few seats away and I couldn't stop staring.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I met her at the first table-reading of the screenplay," he says.

The Guardian - Film

One of my happiest moments was at the first table-read, where I got to introduce Jean to Will: "Pickles, meet your husband, Bob".

Vice

With the prep work completed, Ms. Paltrow assumed her spot at the head of the first table.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the first table" to clearly indicate a specific location, particularly when describing seating arrangements or sequential processes involving tables.

Common error

Ensure the context makes it clear which table is being referred to as the "first table". If there's any possibility of confusion, provide additional details for clarification.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the first table" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It specifies a location or position relative to a table designated as 'first' in a sequence or arrangement. Ludwig examples show its use in describing seating arrangements and procedural contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at the first table" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to specify location, often within a sequence or arrangement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is correct and applicable in various contexts. Its function is to offer spatial orientation, and as Ludwig examples demonstrate, it is primarily found in news and media, though it can also appear in scientific and formal settings. While "at the first table" is generally clear, ensuring the context makes the designation of 'first' unambiguous is a key consideration in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the initial table

Emphasizes the starting point or first table in a sequence.

at the front table

Refers to a table that is situated in the front area.

at the primary table

Highlights the main or most important table among others.

at the foremost table

Suggests a table that is prominent or easily noticeable.

at the head table

Implies a position of honor or importance, often at a formal event.

at the introductory table

Implies that this table is used at the beginning of an event or process.

at the first-row table

Emphasizes its location in the first row of tables.

at the lead table

Indicates the table that is in front or serving as a point of leadership.

at the closest table

Refers to the table being the one nearest in distance.

at the nearest table

Highlights the proximity of the table.

FAQs

How can I use "at the first table" in a sentence?

You can use "at the first table" to indicate a specific location. For example, "The speaker will be sitting "at the first table" during the conference."

What is a synonym for "at the first table"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at the head table" or "at the primary table" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "in the first table" instead of "at the first table"?

While "in" can sometimes indicate location, "at" is generally the preferred preposition when referring to a specific table, as it implies a more precise placement.

What's the difference between "at the first table" and "at the front table"?

"At the first table" implies a sequence or order, while "at the front table" simply indicates a location at the front of a room or area.