cards on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cards on the table" is correct in written English and can be used to refer to a situation in which all pertinent facts and information are revealed and discussed openly.
For example, "Let's lay our cards on the table and talk about it honestly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Opinion

Sport

Tech

Academia

Travel

Health

Culture

Politics

Society

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Cards on the table.

The Guardian - Sport

Cards on the table time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But now I wanted all my cards on the table.

The New Yorker

"We've laid our cards on the table," Boehner says.

The Guardian

H.G.: He threw all his cards on the table!

The New Yorker

There was a deck of cards on the table.

The Guardian - Books

In the conclusion, he puts his cards on the table.

The Guardian - Books

Cards on the table: I used to smoke.

The Guardian

Let me put my cards on the table.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Moving on to last week's cards-on-the-table, clear-the-air meeting.

The Guardian - Sport

I must lay my cards on the table from the onset.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cards on the table" to signal openness and honesty in negotiations or discussions. For example: "Before we start, let's put our "cards on the table" and discuss our expectations".

Common error

Avoid using "cards on the table" in highly formal or technical contexts where more precise language is expected. Instead, opt for terms like "full disclosure" or "transparent communication".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cards on the table" functions as an idiomatic expression. It acts as a figurative way to describe the act of revealing all relevant information or intentions, promoting honesty and transparency in a discussion or negotiation. Ludwig provides multiple examples showcasing its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Opinion

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cards on the table" is an idiomatic expression that signals a commitment to openness and honesty. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and widely used across various contexts, primarily in news, media, and business settings. To effectively use the phrase, remember that it invites candid conversation. While generally neutral in tone, avoid using it in hyper-formal situations. Alternatives like "full disclosure" or "transparent communication" may be more appropriate in specific contexts. Overall, understanding the nuances of "cards on the table" ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lay all your cards on the table

Emphasizes complete and thorough disclosure.

put your cards on the table

A slightly more active and direct way of expressing the idea of revealing information.

show your hand

Implies revealing a plan or strategy, often in a competitive situation.

reveal your intentions

Focuses specifically on making your plans or aims known.

be frank

Highlights direct and honest communication, without necessarily revealing all information.

be upfront

Similar to "be frank", but emphasizes being open from the beginning.

disclose everything

Stresses the act of revealing all relevant details.

make full disclosure

A more formal way of saying "disclose everything", often used in legal or business contexts.

come clean

Suggests admitting something that was previously hidden, often implying wrongdoing.

tell it like it is

Focuses on honesty and directness, even if it's unpleasant.

FAQs

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

You can use "cards on the table" to indicate transparency and honesty, such as, "Let's put our "cards on the table" and discuss our budget concerns openly".

What does it mean to lay your "cards on the table"?

Laying your "cards on the table" means being honest and open about your intentions, plans, or situation, revealing all relevant information.

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

Alternatives include "show your hand", "reveal your intentions", or "be frank", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "lay" or "put" when talking about "cards on the table"?

Both "lay" and "put" are acceptable, but "lay" (as in "lay your "cards on the table"") is slightly more common and idiomatic.