leaves the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leaves the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is physically or metaphorically departing from a situation, discussion, or negotiation. Example: "After hours of negotiation, she finally leaves the table, feeling that no agreement could be reached."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

One smart remark and someone leaves the table in tears.

The New York Times

He leaves the table, and wanders off to talk.

The Guardian

No one leaves the table ahead of him.

The New York Times - Magazine

When she leaves the table for even a moment, the guests grow quiet.

Princeton University

Then, forty-five seconds later, the other person of the couple also leaves the table...

The New Yorker

The first course starts, and one of the partners stands up and leaves the table.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

-- The service officer wishes to tell Madame the Treasurer that Their Majesties are leaving the table.

Princeton University

She left the table crying.

The New Yorker

Leave the table by 12 14.

The New York Times - Arts

And with that she left the table.

The New Yorker

He stands to leave the table.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "leaves the table" when you want to describe a physical departure or a metaphorical withdrawal from a discussion or agreement. Consider the context to choose the most appropriate synonym for "leaves" to convey the intended nuance.

Common error

Avoid using "leaves the table" in situations where someone is simply stepping away temporarily. Phrases like "steps away from the table" or "excuses themselves from the table" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leaves the table" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action of physical departure. Ludwig examples show it used to describe someone physically getting up from a table or metaphorically withdrawing from a discussion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

16%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "leaves the table" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of departing from a table, either physically or metaphorically. As shown by Ludwig, it's versatile and appears frequently in news, academic, and wiki contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While generally neutral in register, consider synonyms like "departs" or "withdraws" for more formal situations. Avoid using it when a temporary absence is intended, opting for phrases like "steps away from the table" instead. Understanding these nuances will ensure precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

departs from the table

Replaces "leaves" with a more formal synonym, "departs".

exits the table

Substitutes "leaves" with "exits", implying a more abrupt departure.

vacates the table

Uses "vacates" to emphasize the act of making the table empty.

gets up from the table

More descriptive, indicating the physical action of standing up.

withdraws from the table

Implies a more strategic or calculated departure, especially in negotiations.

steps away from the table

Indicates a temporary departure.

abandons the table

Conveys a sense of finality or frustration in leaving.

retires from the table

Similar to withdraws, suggesting a deliberate and perhaps permanent departure.

disengages from the table

Focuses on ceasing involvement or participation.

takes leave of the table

A more formal and polite way of saying "leaves the table".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "leaves the table" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "departs from the table" or "withdraws from the table", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "abandons the table" instead of "leaves the table"?

"Abandons the table" carries a stronger connotation of frustration or giving up. Use it when the departure is final and possibly dramatic, not just a temporary absence.

Is there a less abrupt way to say "leaves the table"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "excuses themself from the table" or "steps away from the table" to indicate a polite or temporary departure.

What's the difference between "leaves the table" and "retires from the table"?

"Retires from the table" implies a more deliberate and possibly permanent departure, often used in the context of negotiations or formal discussions, while "leaves the table" is a more general term for any departure.