get something on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get something on the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the act of bringing an issue or topic into discussion for consideration or negotiation. Example: "Before we finalize the contract, let's get something on the table regarding the payment terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"The goal is to get something on the table that keeps September from happening and that is an initiative Israel can live with," a top Israeli official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the secretive and sensitive nature of the diplomacy.

The New York Times

"We were fighting every day to get something on the table".

BBC

"In the long run, we have to get something on the table about the impact that it has on the district and the impact that it has on our ability to meet our promises to our employees".

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Fast, fuss-free, and everyone's got something on the table they're happy about.

Huffington Post

"It was important for the company to get something on the market rather than get something good on the market.

Forbes

You think you've got something on the sensor.

The New Yorker

"Maybe the Palestinians got something on paper and morally, but he got something on the ground," Mr. al-Qaq said.

The New York Times

I would get something on radio and that would get the message across and then at least then they'll be looking out for the letters.

BMC Public Health

Mr. Luftman, the Time Warner Cable spokesman, said, "Right up until the last minute, we were hoping to get something acceptable on the table".

The New York Times

It's vital to show people how easy it is to get something good on the table.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In a new Working Mother Research Institute survey of nearly 1,000 readers of Working Mother, I find that I am not alone in trying to get something healthy on the table night after night.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get something on the table" when you want to emphasize the act of initiating a discussion or introducing a proposal, especially in negotiation or problem-solving contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "get something on the table" in overly casual conversations. It can sound unnecessarily formal or strategic in settings where simple suggestions are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get something on the table" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of introducing an idea, proposal, or topic for discussion or consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "get something on the table" is a commonly used idiom that signifies introducing an idea or proposal for discussion, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its usage is grammatically correct and appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. While suitable for professional and neutral registers, avoid overuse in casual settings. Alternative phrases include "put forward a proposal" or "introduce an idea" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put forward a proposal

Focuses on the act of suggesting or recommending something formally.

introduce an idea

Emphasizes the presentation of a new concept or thought.

bring up for discussion

Highlights the act of introducing a topic for conversation.

table a motion

Refers to formally presenting a proposal for discussion in a meeting.

set forth a plan

Emphasizes the detailed presentation of a strategic course of action.

present for consideration

Highlights the act of offering something for evaluation and deliberation.

submit an offer

Focuses on the action of formally presenting terms or conditions.

raise an issue

Focuses on bringing a specific problem or concern to attention.

lay out the details

Highlights a comprehensive explanation of facts or arrangements.

propose a solution

Specifically suggests a way to resolve a problem or address a need.

FAQs

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

This phrase is typically used to suggest introducing an idea or proposal for discussion. For example, "The goal is to "get something on the table" that keeps September from happening."

What does it mean to "get something on the table"?

It means to introduce a topic, proposal, or idea for discussion or consideration, often in a formal or business setting.

What can I say instead of "get something on the table"?

Alternatives include "put forward a proposal", "introduce an idea", or "table a motion" depending on the context.

Is "get something on the table" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, it is suitable for formal writing, especially in business, legal, or political contexts where proposals and negotiations are involved.