on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

'on the table' is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the location of something (e.g. a book, a plate, a cup). For example, "The plate was sitting on the table next to a vase of flowers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Food on the table.

The New Yorker

Anything on the table?

The New Yorker

That's not on the table".

The New Yorker

"They're sitting on the table.

The New Yorker

Sitting out on the table.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's not on the table".

The New York Times - Sports

On the table, meat loaf.

The New Yorker

Put everything on the table.

The New York Times

It was on the table.

The New Yorker

A. Anything's on the table.

The New York Times

"It's food on the table".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the table" to mean 'available for discussion,' ensure the context clearly indicates whether it's a formal proposal or an informal idea. For instance, "The merger proposal is now "on the table", awaiting feedback from the board."

Common error

Avoid using "on the table" when you only mean physical placement and inadvertently implying that it's also up for debate. Instead of "He left his keys "on the table"," be more explicit: "He left his keys on the table."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the table" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb. It indicates either the physical location of something or, more abstractly, the availability of a topic for discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its proper use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the table" is a versatile prepositional phrase that signifies either the physical placement of an object or the availability of a topic for discussion. It is grammatically correct and very commonly used, as supported by Ludwig's analysis and numerous examples across various contexts. Whether referring to physical items or abstract ideas, understanding its purpose and avoiding confusion between its literal and figurative senses is key. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a handy tool in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under consideration

Focuses on the active process of thinking about something, shifting the emphasis from availability to the act of deliberation.

up for discussion

Highlights the aspect of debate and exchange of ideas, rather than simple availability.

being discussed

Directly states that the subject is currently under conversation or scrutiny, removing the potential for future consideration.

available for consideration

Emphasizes the accessibility of something for review, whereas "on the table" can also imply physical placement.

under review

Implies a more formal and structured evaluation process, different from the broader sense of availability.

in the process of being evaluated

Focuses on detailed assessment. It's more specific than the general sense of openness for discussion.

presented for consideration

Highlights the act of offering something to be thought about, adding a sense of formality.

subject to debate

Emphasizes the controversial or contested nature of the item being considered, unlike the neutral stance of "on the table".

ready for deliberation

Suggests a state of preparedness for careful and thorough consideration, providing a more formal tone.

laid out for review

Implies that the item has been arranged or presented in a clear manner, distinct from simply being available.

FAQs

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

The phrase "on the table" can refer to items physically located on a table or to ideas that are available for discussion. For example, "The documents are "on the table"," or "All options are "on the table" during negotiations."

What does it mean when someone says everything is "on the table"?

When someone says everything is "on the table", they mean all options and proposals are being considered and are open for discussion. It suggests a willingness to explore all possibilities.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "on the table"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "under consideration", "up for discussion", or "being discussed" as alternatives to "on the table".

Is it grammatically correct to say something is "not on the table"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Saying something is "not on the table" means it is not being considered or is excluded from discussion. It's the opposite of saying something is available for consideration.