at the head of the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the head of the table" is entirely correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about someone sitting at the head or front of a table. For example: "The boss sat at the head of the table, and everyone else around her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Thile sat at the head of the table.

The New York Times - Magazine

I don't instantly sit at the head of the table.

The New York Times

She is very much at the head of the table.

The New Yorker

He takes the seat at the head of the table.

The Guardian

Biden took his seat at the head of the table.

The New Yorker

Nayeli sat in a high chair at the head of the table.

The New York Times - Sports

Notice my boy sitting at the head of the table as we honor his achievements!

The New Yorker

I don't want to sit at the head of the table.

The New York Times

The man at the head of the table never stopped talking.

The New Yorker

I summoned my courage and took the chair that was at the head of the table.

Harvard Business Review

Billy takes her seat at the head of the table and stands to speak.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a formal event or meeting, this phrase helps to establish the dynamics and hierarchy among the participants. It's a concise way to communicate who is leading the discussion or decision-making process.

Common error

Avoid using "at the head of the table" when you simply mean someone is sitting at one end of the table without implying leadership. Choose a more neutral description if authority isn't relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the head of the table" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically acting as an adverbial modifier. It indicates location or position, specifying where someone is situated, and often implies a role of leadership or authority. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at the head of the table" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to describe someone's location, often implying leadership or authority. As Ludwig highlights with numerous examples, it's most frequently found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of its connotation; reserve it for situations where you intend to emphasize the individual's role and power, not just their seating position. Consider alternatives such as "in a leadership position" if the setting is not literally at a table, or if authority is not implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a leadership position

Focuses on the leadership aspect rather than the physical location.

in charge of the meeting

Highlights the responsibility of managing a meeting.

presiding over the discussion

Emphasizes the act of guiding and controlling a discussion.

leading the group

Highlights the act of guiding a group, not necessarily at a table.

in the driver's seat

An idiomatic expression indicating control and direction.

at the front of the line

Indicates a position of foremost importance or priority.

in a dominant role

Focuses on the power and influence of the position.

in a position of authority

Highlights the official power associated with the role.

calling the shots

An idiomatic expression for making decisions.

at the helm

Similar to 'in charge' but suggests control of a larger entity, like a ship or organization.

FAQs

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

The phrase "at the head of the table" is used to describe someone sitting in the position of authority, such as "The CEO sat at the head of the table and led the meeting".

What does it mean to be "at the head of the table"?

To be "at the head of the table" signifies holding a position of leadership or authority during a formal gathering, meeting, or meal. It implies control over the proceedings.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "at the head of the table"?

Alternatives include "in a leadership position", "presiding over", or "in charge". Each has slight differences in connotation.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "at the head of the table"?

No, it is not always appropriate. Use it only when you want to emphasize the authority or leadership role of the person sitting in that position. In neutral contexts, simply describing someone's location is more suitable.