issue on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "issue on the table" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a topic or problem that is currently being discussed or considered. Example: During the meeting, the issue on the table was the company's budget for the upcoming year.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This show puts more than one issue on the table, but here is the Big Kahuna.

The New York Times - Arts

Speaking in 2001 about the political question, François Carrard, then the I.O.C.'s director general, said: "We are totally aware there is one issue on the table, and that is human rights.

The New York Times - Sports

The drivers want to see the safety car introduced when a recovery vehicle is being used but the Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg said there was more than one issue on the table.

The Guardian - Sport

If Obama wins a second term, one issue on the table will be the Administration's National Ocean Policy.

Science Magazine

There may be just one issue on the table, but usually other issues lurk beneath the surface.

Science Magazine

I realize I must put one more issue on the table: etiquette.

The New York Times - Magazine

People are now putting this issue on the table".

The New York Times

Another issue on the table is Greece's emergency property tax.

The Guardian - Business

Mr. Snow, however, said: "I commended President Chirac for putting the issue on the table.

The New York Times

Mr. Fedorenko said, however, that disarmament was the only issue on the table at the discussions.

The New York Times

The protection of polar bears is not, of course, the only major issue on the table.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "issue on the table" when you want to emphasize that a particular problem or topic is currently being actively discussed or considered. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While "issue on the table" is widely acceptable, avoid overusing it in very informal conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "topic" or "problem" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "issue on the table" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a particular topic or problem that is currently under consideration or discussion. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used to introduce the main focus of a conversation or meeting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

22%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "issue on the table" is a versatile and commonly used expression to denote a topic or problem currently under discussion or consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Formal & Business settings. While "issue on the table" is suitable for formal and informal situations, remember to use alternatives in very informal conversations to avoid sounding overly formal. Knowing related phrases such as "matter under discussion" and avoiding overuse can help you communicate more effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matter under discussion

Focuses on the act of discussing a specific matter.

topic at hand

Emphasizes the current topic being dealt with.

subject under consideration

Highlights the thoughtful examination of a subject.

point in question

Draws attention to a specific point that is being debated or investigated.

item for discussion

Suggests a formal agenda item.

agenda item

More concise and direct way to refer to something on an agenda.

matter at stake

Highlights the importance and potential consequences of the issue.

question being addressed

Focuses on the act of responding to a specific question.

problem being examined

Highlights the investigative aspect of understanding the issue.

consideration at hand

More formal alternative, indicating something requiring careful thought.

FAQs

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

You can use "issue on the table" to refer to a topic currently under discussion, like: "The "main issue" on the table is how to reduce costs."

What's a more formal alternative to "issue on the table"?

A more formal alternative to "issue on the table" could be "matter under consideration", which emphasizes a more thoughtful and deliberate approach.

Is it correct to say "items on the table" instead of "issue on the table"?

Yes, "items on the table" is correct when referring to multiple topics or points for discussion, whereas "issue on the table" typically refers to a singular, primary concern.

What is the difference between "issue on the table" and "elephant in the room"?

"Issue on the table" refers to a problem being openly discussed, while "elephant in the room" refers to an obvious problem that no one wants to discuss.