put back on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "put back on the table" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something was restored to its original position or to refer to something that is being reconsidered. Example sentence: The proposal had been rejected but after further consideration, it was put back on the table.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Or the possibility of a full-scale acquisition may be put back on the table.

The New York Times

Sugar tax must be put back on the table before it's too late.

The Guardian

It was proposed in October, withdrawn in December and put back on the table earlier this month.

The New York Times

"The regional community risks losing their voice unless the reforms of media is put back on the table," he said.

The Guardian

During one awkward transition, we demurred when dirty utensils from our finished plates were put back on the table.

The New York Times

It was knocked back and later, in the midst of discussions about a campaign for the new Accord, Cog was put back on the table.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

"I thought that if I could get one person to put it back on the table I had a pretty fair shot," Mr. Martinette said.

The New York Times

A new plan would put everything back on the table.

The New York Times

"The Strauss-Kahn affair has put it back on the table".

The New York Times

Francesca picked the microwave dinner up off the kitchen floor and put it back on the table.

The New York Times - Arts

I am just really trying to put it back on the table in a way without dropping the other things".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put back on the table" when you want to emphasize that an idea, proposal, or option is being reconsidered after it was previously rejected or set aside. It's suitable for discussions in business, politics, or personal contexts where decisions are being made.

Common error

Avoid using "put back on the table" when introducing an idea for the first time. This phrase implies a prior discussion or consideration. If it's a new idea, simply "put it on the table" or "introduce the idea".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put back on the table" functions as an idiomatic expression. Based on Ludwig AI, it signifies the act of reintroducing an idea, proposal, or option for discussion or consideration after it has been previously dismissed or set aside.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "put back on the table" is a grammatically sound and commonly used idiom that signifies reintroducing a previously dismissed idea or proposal for reconsideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across diverse contexts. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Formal & Business settings. When using this phrase, ensure the context implies that the idea was previously discussed or considered. It's a versatile phrase but remember to avoid it when an idea is brand new! Alternatives such as "reintroduce", "reconsider", or "reopen" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reconsider

Emphasizes the act of thinking about something again, often leading to a change in opinion or decision.

reintroduce

Focuses on bringing something back into a discussion or process, often after it has been removed or forgotten.

reopen

Focuses on starting something again, such as a case, discussion, or investigation.

re-examine

Highlights a careful and thorough reconsideration of something.

reinstate

Suggests restoring something to a previous position or condition, especially a rule or policy.

restore to the agenda

Indicates that something is being formally added back to a list of items to be discussed or acted upon.

put it up for discussion again

Focuses on raising a topic again for discussion and deliberation.

revive

Implies bringing something back to life or activity after a period of dormancy or decline.

bring up again

A more informal way of saying to introduce something into a conversation or discussion once more.

re-establish

Emphasizes rebuilding or reaffirming something that has been weakened or lost.

FAQs

What does it mean to "put something back on the table"?

To "put something back on the table" means to reintroduce a topic, suggestion, or plan that was previously dismissed or set aside for reconsideration. It implies a renewed interest or necessity to discuss it further.

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

You can use "put back on the table" when you want to say that something is being reconsidered. For example: "After the new data came in, we had to put the budget cuts back on the table".

What are some alternatives to "put back on the table"?

Some alternatives include "reintroduce", "reconsider", or "reopen". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "put back on the table" in formal writing?

Yes, "put back on the table" is acceptable in formal writing, especially in business or political contexts. However, be mindful of your audience and ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the document.