set the table

USAGE SUMMARY

"set the table" is a valid and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used as an imperative phrase when giving instructions on how to arrange the dishes, place settings, and food for a meal. For example, you might say: "Please set the table for dinner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He set the table.

The New Yorker

Set the table for four.

The New York Times

Finally, I set the table.

The New York Times

"You can set the table," she said.

The New Yorker

It was time to set the table.

The New Yorker

Allen and I set the table.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, Ms. Stephens set the table.

The New York Times

Children set the table for dinner.

The New York Times

Set the table with new cloth napkins.

The New York Times

We set the table and prepare dinner.

The Guardian - Opinion

I learned to set the table before bedtime.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions for a formal dinner, be specific about how to "set the table" including the correct placement of each item.

Common error

Avoid using "lay the table" interchangeably with "set the table" in all contexts. While "lay the table" is acceptable, "set the table" is more common and widely understood, especially in American English.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the table" functions primarily as an imperative verb phrase, used to give instructions or commands. It's a common expression, as Ludwig indicates, instructing someone to prepare the dining table for a meal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set the table" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to instruct someone to prepare the table for a meal. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Its primary function is directive, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts. Alternatives such as "lay the table" exist, but "set the table" is more prevalent. Common errors include confusing it with similar phrases. Remember to use this phrase to provide clear instructions for meal preparation effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lay the table

Uses a different verb ("lay" instead of "set") to describe the action of preparing the table.

get the table set

Uses a passive construction, implying the table needs to be in a set state.

prepare the table

Emphasizes the action of getting the table ready, using a more general verb.

arrange the table settings

Focuses on the specific arrangement of plates, cutlery, and glasses.

organize the table

Implies arranging the table items in a particular order

get the table ready for dinner

More verbose, specifying the meal being prepared for.

put out the dishes

Highlights the action of placing the dishes on the table.

place the silverware

Focuses specifically on the arrangement of silverware.

deck the table

Suggests decorating and embellishing the table, not just setting it.

get things ready for the meal

Describes preparations for a meal more broadly, not just setting the table.

FAQs

How do you use "set the table" in a sentence?

You can use "set the table" in a sentence to instruct someone to prepare the table for a meal. For example: "Could you please "set the table" before the guests arrive?"

What's another way to say "set the table"?

Alternatives to "set the table" include "lay the table", "prepare the table", or "arrange the table settings".

Is it correct to say "lay the table" instead of "set the table"?

Yes, "lay the table" is also correct, but "set the table" is more commonly used in American English. Both phrases mean the same thing.

What does it mean to "set the table" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, to "set the table" can mean to prepare the conditions for something to happen or to create a foundation for future events. For example, "This agreement "sets the table" for future cooperation."