set the table for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set the table for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when preparing a dining area by arranging dishes, utensils, and other items needed for a meal. Example: "Before the guests arrive, please set the table for dinner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Set the table for four.

The New York Times

Children set the table for dinner.

The New York Times

That really set the table for me getting in trouble".

The New York Times - Sports

That does set the table for at least a discussion.

The New York Times

That set the table for the Giants' 20-17 loss.

The New York Times - Sports

"We've set the table for something special," Tulsa Coach Bill Self said.

The New York Times - Sports

I set the table for six, with placemats and candles and everything.

The New Yorker

Success can set the table for tragedy, if the victors aren't careful.

The New York Times - Books

"I never know if I should set the table for three or for six," she said.

The New York Times

"Getting Kenny Lofton to set the table for them was a great move.

The New York Times - Sports

As a result, the gymnasts can set the table for less-talented teammates.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set the table for" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the context clearly indicates that you are preparing the way for something, not literally arranging dinnerware. For example, "This agreement sets the table for future collaborations."

Common error

Avoid using "set the table for" when a more direct verb like 'cause', 'enable', or 'initiate' would be more precise. Overusing metaphors can make your writing sound less clear. For instance, instead of 'The new policy set the table for confusion', say 'The new policy caused confusion'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the table for" functions as a preparatory idiom. It describes actions taken to create the necessary conditions for something to happen, often used metaphorically. Ludwig provides examples showing both literal and figurative applications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set the table for" is a versatile phrase primarily used to describe preparing the circumstances for a future event, either literally or metaphorically. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage, particularly in news and media. While generally suitable for a neutral register, it is less common in formal academic or scientific writing, where synonyms might be preferred. By understanding its function and common usage, you can effectively incorporate "set the table for" into your writing while avoiding potential pitfalls such as overuse in formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pave the way for

Emphasizes creating the initial conditions or opportunities for something to happen.

prepare the groundwork for

Highlights the foundational aspects of getting ready for a future development.

lay the foundation for

Focuses on constructing a stable base to support future growth or events.

make preparations for

General term indicating readiness and arrangements being made.

get ready for

A more direct and less formal way of indicating preparation.

arrange things for

Focuses on the act of organizing and setting up in anticipation.

clear the path for

Highlights removing obstacles to enable progress or success.

set up in anticipation of

Emphasis on proactively arranging elements with a specific expectation in mind.

establish the conditions for

Highlights the act of creating necessary circumstances to enable something.

build the framework for

Suggests constructing a structured base to support future events or developments.

FAQs

How can I use "set the table for" in a sentence?

The phrase "set the table for" is used both literally, to describe preparing a table for a meal, and metaphorically, to describe preparing the circumstances for something to happen. For example, "She "set the table for" dinner", or "This agreement "set the table for" future collaborations".

What does it mean to "set the table for" something?

To "set the table for" something means to prepare the circumstances or conditions to make it possible or more likely to occur. It can refer to literal table settings or, more often, to creating opportunities. Similar expressions include "pave the way for" or "lay the foundation for".

Which is the correct phrase, "set the table for" or "setting the table for"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Set the table for" is the base form and is often used in instructions or general statements. "Setting the table for" is a gerund phrase and is used when the action is ongoing or part of a continuous activity. For example: "Please "set the table for" dinner" versus "She is "setting the table for" the guests".

What are some alternatives to using "set the table for" in a business context?

In a business context, you can use alternatives such as "prepare the groundwork for", "lay the foundation for", or "establish the conditions for" to convey a sense of strategic preparation. For example, "This new initiative "prepares the groundwork for" future expansion".