bring anything to the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bring anything to the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to contributing something of value or importance to a discussion, negotiation, or situation. Example: "During the meeting, I hope everyone can bring anything to the table that will help us solve the issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Tony, I am sorry but we can't hire a kid, it's too dangerous and he doesn't bring anything to the table".

The New Yorker

"Frenemies" don't really bring anything to the table and they make us feel bad, sneakily undermining us with covert criticism, making sure that our life pales in comparison with their own.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Don't be the person who only takes and doesn't bring anything to the table.

Forbes

When asked to explain further about 'Angry Birds' versus a game like 'CityVille,' Ryan said, "We don't bring anything to the table but it's still a great game.

TechCrunch

"We've just never at any point in the season allowed our better players to bring anything to the table and that's been a huge disappointment.

BBC

"They're worried about maintaining their culture as a public company," says Tierney, who also thinks joining a pure-play broker wouldn't bring anything to the table.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

If he's not bringing anything to the table, then he's just bringing me down".

The New Yorker

You have all the empty suits that are bringing anything to the table that they can.

Huffington Post

George Romney's American Motors Corp. was a stitched-together mess of the Nash and Hudson car companies, neither brand bringing anything to the table but the embarrassment and loathing of its customers.

Los Angeles Times

Messaging a hottie with "Hey" isn't bringing anything to the table.

WikiHow

The dispossessed minorities who have the strongest stake in civil rights play no role during the democratic transition for the simple reason that they cannot normally bring anything to the bargaining table.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using this phrase. In professional settings, it implies tangible skills or knowledge, while in personal relationships, it might refer to emotional support or shared experiences.

Common error

Avoid using "bring anything to the table" when the expected contribution is unclear or unsubstantial. Overusing the phrase without delivering actual value can diminish credibility and make you sound insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bring anything to the table" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of contributing something of value to a situation, discussion, or project. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bring anything to the table" is an idiomatic phrase used to describe the act of contributing something valuable to a situation or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not extremely common, it's frequently found in news and media contexts. To ensure clarity, avoid using the phrase when the expected contribution is unclear. Consider alternatives like "contribute meaningfully" or "offer valuable input" depending on the setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a significant contribution

Emphasizes the importance of the contribution.

contribute meaningfully

Focuses on the act of providing a significant contribution.

offer valuable input

Emphasizes the worth of the contribution.

provide something of value

Highlights the beneficial aspect of the contribution.

offer unique skills

Highlights the special abilities one possesses.

present a fresh perspective

Emphasizes originality in viewpoint.

add a new dimension

Suggests introducing a fresh perspective or element.

impart expertise

Highlights the sharing of specialized knowledge.

introduce innovation

Focuses on bringing something groundbreaking.

supply essential resources

Focuses on providing vital support.

FAQs

What does it mean to "bring anything to the table"?

To "bring anything to the table" means to contribute something valuable or useful to a discussion, negotiation, or joint effort. It suggests offering skills, knowledge, resources, or perspectives that enhance the outcome.

How can I "bring anything to the table" in a meeting?

Prepare by researching the topic, identifying your areas of expertise, and formulating thoughtful questions or suggestions. Sharing relevant data, offering solutions to challenges, or providing a unique viewpoint are all ways to "bring anything to the table".

What are some alternative ways to say "bring anything to the table"?

You can use alternatives like "contribute meaningfully", "offer valuable input", or "provide something of value" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "bring anything to the table" in formal settings?

Yes, "bring anything to the table" is generally acceptable in formal settings, although it can be replaced with more formal alternatives like "contribute meaningfully" or "provide valuable expertise" for an even more professional tone.