papers on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "papers on the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to documents or items that are physically placed on a table, often in a context where they need to be reviewed or discussed. Example: "Please make sure to leave the papers on the table for everyone to review before the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

God the Novelist searched among His papers on the table.

The New Yorker

She then "slammed her purse and papers on the table," according to Faux, who was present.

The New Yorker

Once the tears broke, she tilted forward until her face touched the pile of papers on the table before her.

The Guardian

This is where he holds most of his meetings -- everyone standing, elbows and papers on the table.

The New York Times

"It's all very D.I.Y.," Irwin said, enthusiastic and proud, pointing to the chaotic arrangement of papers on the table.

The New Yorker

(Lane is looking belligerent, and he pauses rather lengthily to consult some papers on the table before him.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Nonetheless, aside from the fact that this was all facilitated by the New Museum as a part of their recent Ideas City festival, it wasn't clear that what we were doing was particularly artistic until you examined the stack of papers on the tables.

Vice

There is some printed paper on the table.

The New Yorker

Mr. Alesch fiddled with the butcher paper on the table.

The New York Times

THE MAN AT THE table rises and goes, leaving the paper on the table.

The New Yorker

There were sheets of paper on the table in front of them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene or situation, use "papers on the table" to clearly indicate physical documents are present, especially when their arrangement or presence is relevant to the narrative or context.

Common error

Avoid using "papers on the table" metaphorically to mean 'issues for discussion' unless the context makes the figurative meaning exceptionally clear. Stick to literal usage for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "papers on the table" functions primarily as a noun phrase within a sentence. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement, referring to physical documents or written materials located on a table. Ludwig confirms this with numerous examples where the phrase describes a tangible scene.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "papers on the table" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe documents located on a table. As Ludwig examples show, it frequently appears in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts, maintaining a neutral register. While the phrase is generally used literally, it can sometimes imply a need for review or discussion. To avoid confusion, particularly in more formal contexts, writers should use it literally. Ludwig AI confirms the expression is valid and provides relevant examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

documents on the table

Replaces "papers" with a more formal term, maintaining the same context.

files on the table

Similar to "documents", but often implies digital rather than physical items.

documents laid out on the table

Adds a visual element, suggesting the documents are spread out.

reports on the table

More specific; replaces 'papers' with 'reports'.

materials on the table

A broader term encompassing various types of papers or items.

notes on the table

Specifies the type of papers as "notes".

spreadsheets on the table

Replaces "papers" with a more specific type of document.

the paperwork on the table

Adds emphasis to the bureaucratic nature of the papers.

a pile of papers on the table

Highlights the quantity of papers present.

loose papers on the table

Emphasizes the disorganized nature of the papers.

FAQs

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

You can use "papers on the table" to describe documents or notes physically present on a table. For example: "She slammed the "papers on the table" in frustration."

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

Alternatives include "documents on the table", "files on the table", or "reports on the table", depending on the specific type of papers you're referring to.

Is it correct to say "paper on the table" instead of "papers on the table"?

While grammatically correct if there is only one sheet of paper, "paper on the table" is less common. If you're referring to multiple documents, "papers on the table" is more appropriate.

What does it mean when someone says "Let's put all the papers on the table"?

It usually means laying out all available documents or information for review or discussion, similar to the idiom "put all your cards on the table", but more literal.