remained on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "remained on the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is still being considered or has not been resolved or removed from discussion. Example: "The proposal for the new project remained on the table during the meeting, as the team wanted to gather more input before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For example, one issue that remained on the table was the percentage of shareholders that dissidents would need to solicit, with a hedge fund representative arguing for a low percentage, while others maintained that, to be fair, there should be parity with the solicitation requirements applicable to companies.

Harvard University

As with so many other issues, the adult home measure became entangled in the sometimes contentious negotiations over a host of other proposals, including new rules for assisted living facilities for the elderly, and no one wanted to compromise on one issue while others remained on the table.

The New York Times

He told reporters that all options for dealing with Iran remained on the table, while Israeli defence secretary Moshe Yaalon said "one way or another Iran's nuclear programme will be stopped".

BBC

Downstairs the ruins of dinner remained on the table.

The Guardian - Books

Each print remained on the table under suction until it was completely dry.

Columbia University

Both sides refused to say which issues had been settled and which remained on the table.

The New York Times

But Obama's offer to Iran of talks over the nuclear program also remained on the table.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Bouton said Monday that his offer of resignation remained on the table.

The New York Times

Napthine said as far as the Victorian government was concerned, all projects remained on the table.

The Guardian - Business

Empty beer glasses — and bottles — remained on the table through dinner.

The New York Times

In Washington, a White House spokesman, Scott McClellan, suggested that the question of reconstruction contracts remained on the table.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "remained on the table" when you want to convey that an idea, proposal, or option is still being considered and hasn't been rejected, especially in negotiations or discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "remained on the table" if you intend to communicate that something has been permanently deferred or abandoned. This phrase implies that a possibility still exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remained on the table" functions as a predicative expression, typically describing the status of a proposal, suggestion, or option within a negotiation, discussion, or decision-making process. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use and acceptability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "remained on the table" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that a proposal, idea, or option is still under consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and business. While it implies ongoing evaluation, it's crucial to avoid using it when something has been permanently rejected. Alternatives like "still under consideration" or "open for discussion" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context. Overall, "remained on the table" is a versatile phrase for conveying that something hasn't been ruled out yet.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

still under consideration

Emphasizes the ongoing evaluation process.

yet to be decided

Highlights the lack of a final decision.

pending resolution

Focuses on the need for a future resolution.

open for discussion

Stresses the availability for further debate.

unresolved issue

Points out that the matter is not yet settled.

tabled for later

Indicates a postponement for future discussion.

left open

Suggests that the option is still available.

not set in stone

Implies flexibility and potential for change.

subject to change

Emphasizes the possibility of future alterations.

in abeyance

Indicates a temporary suspension of the matter.

FAQs

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

You can use "remained on the table" to indicate that a proposal, idea, or option is still being considered and has not been rejected. For example, "The option of extending the deadline "remained on the table" during the negotiations".

What can I say instead of "remained on the table"?

You can use alternatives like "still under consideration", "yet to be decided", or "open for discussion" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "remained on the table" or "stayed on the table"?

"Remained on the table" and "stayed on the table" are similar, but "remained on the table" implies a more formal or prolonged state of consideration. "Stayed on the table" is also correct, but less common.

What's the difference between "remained on the table" and "taken off the table"?

"Remained on the table" means something is still being considered, while "taken off the table" means it has been rejected or is no longer an option.