be tabled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be tabled" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal contexts, particularly in meetings or discussions, to indicate that a topic or motion is to be postponed or set aside for future consideration. Example: "The proposal to increase the budget will be tabled until the next meeting for further discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That will be tabled immediately, Mr Speaker.

The Guardian

It is expected to be tabled in parliament on Tuesday.

The Guardian

The committee's report will be tabled in parliament on Monday.

The Guardian

The findings are scheduled to be tabled in June 2015.

The Guardian

A final report would be tabled early next year.

The Guardian

At report stage, further significant amendments will be tabled.

The Guardian - Opinion

The audit is due to be tabled in December.

The Guardian

The legislation also set detailed reporting requirements including annual reports to be tabled in parliament.

The Guardian

A security bill, was originally due to be tabled on Wednesday morning.

The Guardian

The minister's response will be tabled along with another report from the committee.

The Guardian

It was rejected at the first reading but will be tabled again in the autumn.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context clearly indicates whether "be tabled" means 'to postpone' or 'to present for discussion,' as the meaning can vary.

Common error

Avoid using "be tabled" in informal contexts where simpler terms like "postpone" or "delay" would be more appropriate. Also, be aware of the ambiguity of the phrase; clarify its intended meaning (postpone vs. present) to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be tabled" functions as a passive verb phrase. It is most often used to indicate that a motion, bill, or other item is being postponed or deferred for consideration at a later time. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be tabled" is a grammatically correct passive verb phrase primarily used in formal settings. It signifies the postponement or deferral of an item for future discussion, with contexts spanning news, business, and academic domains. While usage is common, clarity is crucial to avoid ambiguity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase finds its place in official reports and meeting discussions to indicate an item's temporary removal from immediate consideration. Remember to use with precision to maintain clarity in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be postponed

Focuses on delaying the action or discussion until a later time.

be deferred

Implies a more formal or official postponement.

be submitted

Highlights the act of presenting something for consideration.

be put on hold

Suggests a temporary suspension of the matter.

be held over

Emphasizes the carrying over of an item to a subsequent meeting or session.

be shelved

Indicates that something has been put aside, possibly indefinitely.

be presented

Emphasizes the action of introducing a proposal or document.

be laid before

A more formal way of saying something is presented for consideration.

be set aside

Indicates that something is being reserved for another time.

be parked

An informal way to say something is temporarily put aside.

FAQs

What does "be tabled" mean in a parliamentary context?

In parliamentary procedure, "be tabled" can mean either to postpone discussion of a motion or to bring a motion forward for discussion, depending on the specific rules of the assembly. Always clarify the intended meaning.

What are some alternatives to "be tabled" when meaning 'to postpone'?

When "be tabled" means to postpone, you can use alternatives such as "be postponed", "be deferred", or "be put on hold".

How can I avoid ambiguity when using the phrase "be tabled"?

To avoid confusion, explicitly state whether the item is being postponed or presented for discussion. For example, say "The motion will be tabled for further review" (postponed) or "The report will be tabled at the next meeting" (presented).

Is "be tabled" appropriate for informal communication?

While grammatically correct, "be tabled" is generally more suited for formal settings. In informal communication, consider using simpler alternatives like "be put off" or "be delayed".