back on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

"back on the table" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that an idea, plan, or proposal that had been taken off the table is now being considered again. For example: "After much discussion, the group agreed to put the proposal for a 10% pay raise back on the table."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

All are back on the table.

The Guardian

So let's put a few things back on the table.

The New York Times - Magazine

Now we are gone, it is back on the table.

The Guardian - Opinion

The next day, the issue was back on the table.

The New Yorker

And put that pepper mill back on the table.

The Guardian - Books

Now the idea is back on the table.

The New Yorker

Nevertheless, the theory of decoupling is back on the table.

The New York Times

Now the deal is back on the table.

The Guardian

Are all those things back on the table now?

The Guardian

I left the speech back on the table.

The New York Times

Labor issues are suddenly and angrily back on the table.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "back on the table", ensure that the context clearly indicates why the issue is being revisited. Providing a brief explanation can prevent confusion and set the stage for productive discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "back on the table" when referring to something that was always under consideration. This phrase is most effective when signaling a genuine shift in approach, not simply continuing a discussion that never stopped.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "back on the table" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that a previously discarded idea, proposal, or plan is now being reconsidered or is once again available for discussion. As Ludwig AI pointed out, the phrase signals a shift in approach.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic phrase "back on the table" is a commonly used expression to denote that a previously discarded idea or plan is now being reconsidered. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively signals a shift in approach and is frequently found in neutral contexts such as news and media. When using the phrase, ensure that the context is clear about why the issue is being revisited to avoid misinterpretations. Consider alternatives like ""reopened for consideration"" or ""up for discussion again"" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reopened for consideration

Emphasizes the renewed possibility of discussing or acting upon something.

up for discussion again

Highlights that a topic is once more available for debate or consideration.

under consideration anew

Formal and stresses a fresh examination of the matter.

reintroduced for deliberation

Implies a formal setting where a previously discarded idea is brought back.

resurfaced as a possibility

Suggests something that was dormant has re-emerged as a potential option.

brought back into play

Indicates that something is now a viable option again.

revisited for assessment

Highlights that a topic is undergoing a new evaluation.

reactivated for review

Suggests something is being actively brought back for analysis.

brought to the fore again

Highlights that a matter is being given prominence once more.

re-entered the discussion

Describes the act of reintroducing a topic into an ongoing conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "back on the table" in a sentence?

You can use "back on the table" to indicate that a previously discarded idea or plan is now being reconsidered. For example: "After new data emerged, the proposal to expand the facility is "reopened for consideration" and "up for discussion again"".

What is an alternative to saying "back on the table"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""reopened for consideration"", ""up for discussion again"", or "under consideration anew", depending on the formality and context.

Is it correct to say "put back on the table" or "bring back to the table"?

Both "put back on the table" and "bring back to the table" are grammatically correct and commonly used. They convey a similar meaning to "back on the table", indicating that something is being reintroduced for consideration.

What's the difference between "back on the table" and "on the table"?

"On the table" generally means something is currently being discussed or considered. "Back on the table" implies that the item was previously removed from consideration but is now being discussed again.