present at the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "present at the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate someone's physical presence or participation in a discussion or meeting. Example: "During the negotiations, all key stakeholders were present at the table to ensure that every voice was heard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The only girl present at the table that evening was Johanna, 10, sister of Max Rosen, who was the host.

The New York Times

I brought up the subject of mustard-based sauce at his dinner table the other day and was hooted down for daring to speak about such a hideous abomination when a bottle of Gates's finest was actually present at the table.

The New York Times - Magazine

"But we haven't called for a ban because we continue to believe that, in all likelihood, some amount of drilling is going to happen, and it's important to be present at the table so we have regulations that ensure that whatever is done will be done as safely as possible".

The New York Times

"When you are present at the table, you lower it [iPad] down, so you're basically at the same position as if you're seated.

TechCrunch

When people spend more time on their phone during dinner or brunch than they do interacting with the people present at the table.

Huffington Post

During the Sabbath meal, observant Jews have a ritual called blessing the children in which each person present at the table blesses the children.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"There are always presents at the table, though we save the big ones for afterward," she says.

The New York Times - Magazine

The end result, presented at the table, is cracked with a hammer, and the salt shards form a decorative bed, like white stones in a garden.

The New York Times - Arts

One dish was Plats du Mer -- clams, oysters, shrimp, mussels, crab and their sauces -- presented at the table as a buffet, large platters filled with crushed ice on wire racks.

The New York Times

Presented at the Table 1, data confirm our assumption about the existence of graphite oxide particles at zones 2 and 4. At the same time, there is low content of oxygen at zone 3 and consequently no high graphite oxide concentration can be expected.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Ms. Sanchez said significant developments during a long day of negotiating had persuaded the unions to extend the talks, including an expectation that BART's general manager, Grace Crunican, would be present at the bargaining table beginning Friday morning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "present at the table" to emphasize the importance of active participation and direct involvement in a decision-making process or discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "present at the table" when simply indicating physical presence without active contribution. Instead, clarify the individual's role or impact if they are not actively participating.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "present at the table" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting adverbially to modify a verb or noun. It indicates the location or state of being in a particular situation, emphasizing active participation or involvement. Ludwig AI validates this usage, showing its presence in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "present at the table" is a prepositional phrase denoting active involvement in a discussion or decision-making process. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English, although its frequency is relatively uncommon. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it emphasizes the importance of participation and contribution. To avoid misinterpretations, ensure the context clearly indicates active engagement, not just passive presence. Consider alternatives like "in attendance at the meeting" or "participating in the discussion" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the negotiating table

Specifically refers to being part of a formal negotiation process.

in attendance at the meeting

Focuses on the aspect of being physically present and participating in a formal gathering.

participating in the discussion

Highlights the active engagement in a conversation or deliberation.

engaged in the conversation

Stresses active involvement and interaction during a discussion.

involved in the negotiation

Emphasizes engagement and influence within a bargaining process.

part of the decision-making process

Stresses the inclusion in a process that leads to choices and conclusions.

available for discussion

Indicates a willingness and readiness to engage in conversation.

on the panel

Refers to being a member of a group assembled for a specific purpose, like a discussion or review.

at the heart of the matter

Implies being centrally involved in the most crucial aspects of a situation.

taking part in the proceedings

Highlights involvement in a series of formal actions or events.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "present at the table"?

To be "present at the table" means to be actively involved and participating in a discussion, negotiation, or decision-making process. It implies more than just physical presence; it suggests contributing to the conversation and influencing the outcome.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "present at the table"?

Use "present at the table" when you want to highlight someone's active involvement and influence in a particular situation, especially in contexts like negotiations, meetings, or discussions where their participation is significant.

What are some alternative phrases to "present at the table"?

You can use alternatives like "in attendance at the meeting", "participating in the discussion", or "at the negotiating table", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

How does being "present at the table" differ from simply being "involved"?

While being "involved" suggests participation to some extent, being "present at the table" implies a more direct and influential role. It conveys the idea of having a seat at the decision-making table, where your voice and input are valued.