is on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

"is on the table" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is physically present on top of a table. Example: The car keys you were looking for are on the table. (This means that the keys can be found on top of a table.) "Is on the table" can also be used figuratively to mean that something is being discussed or considered. Example: The new budget proposal is on the table for review. (This means that the budget proposal is being considered and discussed.) Another example: The option of working remotely is on the table for our company. (This means that the option is being considered and could potentially be implemented.).

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Everything is on the table," said one Republican aide.

The New York Times

"Everything is on the table".

The New York Times

The box is on the table.

The Economist

And dinner is on the table.

The New York Times

Everything is on the table for now.

The New Yorker

But not everything is on the table.

The New York Times

"Everything is on the table," he said.

The New York Times

"Now Albanian nationalism is on the table.

The New York Times

The country's future is on the table.

The Guardian - Opinion

TURNBULL: Everything is on the table.

The Guardian

But nothing is on the table".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase in writing, ensure that the context is clear. Specify who is considering the option and what the potential actions or outcomes might be.

Common error

Avoid using "is on the table" if the option has already been rejected or is no longer under consideration. This can create confusion and misrepresent the current status.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is on the table" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase indicating the state of something being considered or discussed. Examples from Ludwig show its application in contexts ranging from political negotiations to personal choices, signifying active deliberation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is on the table" is a common and grammatically sound expression indicating that something is being considered or discussed. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across diverse contexts, especially in News & Media. When writing, remember that it is mostly used in the news and media. Its versatility and clear meaning make it a valuable addition to your communication toolkit. When writing, it's important to specify who is considering the option and what the potential outcomes might be. While adaptable, it's crucial to use "is on the table" accurately to prevent misinterpretations about the actual status of the options being discussed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

available for consideration

Focuses on the readiness and suitability for evaluation.

under consideration

Focuses specifically on the act of careful thought and evaluation.

open for discussion

Stresses the accessibility and willingness to consider different viewpoints.

being discussed

Emphasizes active conversation and exchange of ideas.

under review

Implies a more formal and structured evaluation process.

up for debate

Highlights the potential for disagreement and differing opinions.

subject to discussion

Highlights that something might be talked over and decided.

on the agenda

Indicates that something is scheduled for discussion or action.

on the cards

Indicates that something is a possibility or likely to happen.

in the pipeline

Suggests that something is in the process of development or implementation.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "is on the table"?

When something "is on the table", it means that it is currently being considered or discussed as a possible option or course of action. It implies that the idea or proposal is open for evaluation and potential implementation.

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

You can use "is on the table" to indicate that a particular topic, suggestion, or plan is being discussed or considered. For example, you might say, "All options "are on the table" during these negotiations."

What are some alternatives to saying "is on the table"?

Some alternatives to saying "is on the table" include "under consideration", "being discussed", "up for debate", or "available for consideration". The best alternative will depend on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "everything is on the table"?

Yes, it is perfectly correct to say "everything is on the table". This phrase is commonly used to indicate that all options, possibilities, or aspects are being considered without any exclusions.