prepare the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prepare the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to set up a table for a meal or an event. Example: "Before the guests arrive, please prepare the table with the dishes and cutlery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Within the group there's always someone who's lazy, who will tell you how to prepare the table, cut up some cheese, sit down and demand a glass of txakoli (traditional Basque wine).

The Guardian - Travel

9. Prepare the table with a loaf of delicious bread, a bread knife, a butter plate with a slab of softened butter on it and a shallow bowl half-filled with olive oil, so she'll have a choice of what to put on the bread.

The New York Times - Magazine

I prepare the table and my brother cleans the table.

BBC

Ideally, everyone at the table should help prepare the table in some way.

Huffington Post

Prepare the table.

WikiHow

Prepare the table by laying down a new sheet of paper, placing a pillow, and covering it with a disposable cover.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

We used GRADEpro 2014 to prepare the tables.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews

She helped to write the manuscript and prepare the tables and figures.

BMC Genomics

PL analyzed the data, prepared the Table and Figures and participated in the preparation of the manuscript.

BMC Pediatrics

Perhaps the cutter had been sneaking a smoke while his assistants prepared the table.

The New York Times

Steve continues his lesson as he prepares the table for a $325 meal for one, including hors d'oeuvres, a filet mignon, a bottle of 1996 Mondavi-Rothschild Ones One, and a dish of ice cream.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prepare the table", consider the context and choose the most appropriate level of formality. "Set the table" is generally more common in everyday conversation.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "prepare the table" in casual settings can sound overly formal. Opt for the more common "set the table" in everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prepare the table" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of arranging or setting up a table, as confirmed by Ludwig and its various examples. It describes what one needs to do to make a table ready for a specific purpose, typically dining.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "prepare the table" is a grammatically sound way to describe arranging a table for a meal or activity. While correct, it's less common than the alternative "set the table", particularly in informal settings. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is mostly used in News & Media and Wiki contexts. When writing, consider your audience and the level of formality required. Using "set the table" might be more appropriate for everyday conversation, while "prepare the table" can be suitable for instructional or descriptive contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set the table

This alternative is a more common and direct way to say "prepare the table".

lay the table

This alternative is a synonym for "set the table" and "prepare the table".

arrange the table setting

This alternative emphasizes the arrangement of items on the table.

get the table ready

This alternative uses a more informal and conversational tone.

ready the table

This alternative is slightly more formal and concise.

dress the table

This alternative implies decorating the table, making it visually appealing.

organize the table

This alternative highlights the act of putting the table in order.

equip the table

This alternative suggests providing all the necessary items for a meal or activity.

make the table

This alternative uses the broader verb "make" to indicate preparing the table.

fix the table

This alternative is less common and can imply repairing or setting up the table.

FAQs

What does "prepare the table" mean?

The phrase "prepare the table" means to arrange the necessary items, such as cutlery, dishes, and glasses, on a table for a meal or other activity.

Is "prepare the table" the same as "set the table"?

While similar, "set the table" is generally more common and informal than "prepare the table". Both phrases refer to arranging a table for a meal.

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

You can use "prepare the table" in a sentence like this: "Before the guests arrive, please prepare the table with the finest china."

What are some alternatives to "prepare the table"?

Some alternatives to "prepare the table" include "set the table", "lay the table", and "get the table ready".