be on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be on the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a topic or issue is open for discussion or consideration. Example: "The budget proposal will be on the table during the next meeting for everyone to review."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"It should be on the table.

The New York Times - Science

Everything must be on the table.

The New York Times

All options will be on the table.

The New York Times

Everything has to be on the table".

The New York Times

"Everything should be on the table.

The New York Times

Graduated eligibility should be on the table.

The New York Times

"It [Emirates] could be on the table.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

It was on the table.

The New Yorker

"Everything is on the table".

The New York Times

"The facts are on the table".

The New York Times - Tech

The box is on the table.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be on the table" to indicate that all options, ideas, or proposals are open for consideration during a discussion or negotiation. It suggests a willingness to explore various possibilities before making a decision.

Common error

Avoid using "be on the table" in contexts where you literally mean something is physically placed on a table. The phrase is an idiom with a specific figurative meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be on the table" functions as an idiomatic expression, indicating that something is open for discussion or consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiom "be on the table" is a versatile and widely used expression that signifies openness and consideration in discussions and negotiations. Ludwig AI confirms that "be on the table" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe options or proposals that are available for consideration. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for various settings, from news reports to academic debates. When using the phrase, ensure it aligns with its figurative meaning and avoids any literal interpretations. Remember, as the numerous examples illustrate, that the idiom is a way to offer all options when working toward a solution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be under consideration

Focuses on the act of something being actively thought about.

be up for discussion

Highlights the availability of a topic for debate and conversation.

be a viable option

Emphasizes the possibility of something being a practical choice.

be an open question

Indicates that a matter is not yet decided and remains to be resolved.

be subject to debate

Highlights that something can be argued about.

be on the agenda

Suggests a more formal setting where items are listed for discussion.

be in contention

Implies that something is being actively competed for or considered.

be a possibility

Highlights that something might happen or be true.

be an alternative

Simply suggests that something can be chosen instead of something else.

be a prospect

Focuses on the potential or likelihood of something occurring.

FAQs

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

You can use "be on the table" to indicate that something is available for consideration or discussion. For example, "All options for solving the budget crisis are "be on the table" during the meeting."

What is the meaning of the idiom "be on the table"?

The idiom "be on the table" means that something is open for discussion or consideration; all options are being considered.

What can I say instead of "be on the table"?

Alternatives to "be on the table" include "be under consideration", "be up for discussion", or "be a viable option", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "everything is on the table"?

Yes, it's correct. Saying "everything is on the table" means that all options and possibilities are being considered and nothing is ruled out. It's a common expression in negotiations and discussions.