hands on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

"hands on the table" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any situation when you want to emphasize placing one's hands on a table. For example, "I asked my students to place their hands on the table before I began lecturing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The set up, thus, created the visual impression that the participants had placed both of their hands on the table parallel to one another (Figure 1).

Plosone

After placing one on her tongue, JJ pressed both hands on the table and squinted at the ceiling.

Independent

The hands on the table were large.

The New Yorker

"Hands on the table," the leader said.

The New York Times

She beat a rhythm with her hands on the table.

The New York Times - Arts

Ground yourself by putting your hands on the table or your feet on the floor.

Harvard Business Review

Some pounded their hands on the table when they said it.

The New York Times

The team that keeps its hands on the table the longest wins.

The Guardian - Books

He sits with his hands on the table, no fidgeting or wringing of the hands.

The New York Times - Sports

Each soldier was told to spread his hands on the table, palms down.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

After rehearsal, when his drum and sticks are packed away, he uses his hands -- on the table, on the floor, on the walls.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hands on the table" to describe a physical action, a gesture of stability, or a moment of anticipation. For example, "He placed his hands on the table, ready to negotiate."

Common error

Avoid using "hands on the table" when you actually mean "cards on the table" (meaning revealing one's intentions), or other idiomatic expressions. Ensure the context clearly indicates a literal placement of hands.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hands on the table" primarily functions as a descriptive element, often part of a larger clause. It depicts a physical action or posture, lending vividness to narratives or reports. Ludwig examples show the phrase describing everything from grounding oneself to preparing for a task.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hands on the table" is a common and versatile expression used to describe a physical action or state, often conveying stability, readiness, or intention. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability. Analysis of numerous examples reveals its prevalence across various contexts, including news reports, scientific studies, and general descriptions. It is generally neutral in register, suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in your writing and avoid confusing it with idiomatic expressions like "cards on the table". By considering these factors, you can effectively incorporate "hands on the table" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fingertips on the table

Focuses on the fingertips rather than the entire hand, providing a more delicate image.

fingers on the table

Similar to 'fingertips', this narrows the focus to the fingers.

forearms on the table

Specifies the part of the arm resting on the table, adding detail.

hands on the frame

Replaces 'table' with 'frame', altering the physical context but maintaining the action of placing hands on something.

hands on the canvas

Changes the surface from 'table' to 'canvas', implying an artistic context.

hands on the kitchen

Alters the location to 'kitchen', suggesting a domestic setting.

challenges on the table

Shifts from physical placement to metaphorical presentation of issues for consideration.

decisions on the table

Replaces physical contact with a figurative presentation of choices.

offers on the table

Substitutes a physical action with the presentation of opportunities.

leaves on the table

Replaces 'hands' with 'leaves', creating a nature-related image.

FAQs

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

You can use "hands on the table" to describe a physical action, such as "He put his hands on the table to steady himself", or to indicate a sense of readiness, like "With hands on the table, she prepared to answer the difficult questions".

What does it mean when someone puts their "hands on the table"?

The phrase "hands on the table" can indicate various things depending on context. It might show stability, anticipation, or a deliberate act of grounding oneself, as in negotiation or tense situations.

Are there any idioms similar to "hands on the table"?

While not directly synonymous, phrases like "cards on the table" (meaning honesty/openness) or "laying one's cards on the table" are idioms that share a sense of directness, though in a figurative rather than literal sense.

Is it ever impolite to put your "hands on the table"?

In some formal dining settings or cultures, placing your hands on the table might be considered more polite than keeping them in your lap. However, context and cultural norms dictate the appropriateness.