set the tables

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set the tables" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of arranging or preparing tables for a meal or event. Example: "Before the guests arrive, we need to set the tables with plates, utensils, and napkins."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

He set the tables for lunch, swept the floors and washed dishes.

The Washington Post

I set the tables, placing each napkin an inch from the edge.

The New Yorker

It begins as the waitresses set the tables and ends as they clear away the remains of the day.

The Guardian

We seek to improve times by looking at the logistics of the room, how we set the tables out, how quickly we can move the boxes from the point of entry, to being emptied out, verified and counted," says Smith.

The Guardian

The upshot of all this was that I found myself in the cool subterranean glow of Daggett's at three-thirty in the afternoon, nursing a Jack-and-Coke like one of the regulars while Daria, the ring finger of her left hand as unencumbered as mine, cleared up after the lunch crowd and set the tables for the dinner rush.

The New Yorker

It seems to feature nearly every single major and minor character who has ever appeared in a Marvel movie up to this point in a plot that will apparently set the tables for the backend of this massive story.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 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

Let him set the table.

The New York Times

"You can set the table," she said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set the tables", ensure the context clarifies what items are being placed on the tables, such as cutlery, dishes, or decorations.

Common error

Avoid using "set the tables" when referring to tasks beyond table arrangement. For example, don't say "We need to set the tables for the event", if you also mean decorating the venue. Instead, specify all tasks or use a broader term like "prepare the venue".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the tables" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the action of preparing tables for a meal or event. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct. This preparation typically includes placing items like cutlery, dishes, and napkins in a neat and orderly manner.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set the tables" is a grammatically sound and understandable phrase used to describe the action of preparing tables for an event or meal. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct. While "set the table" is more common, the plural form is still frequently used and understood. As showcased by Ludwig, this phrase appears in various contexts, ranging from news to lifestyle articles, indicating its broad applicability and neutral tone. When employing the phrase, consider the clarity of the items being placed and make sure that it is used when referring to table arrangement only, and not when referring to other kinds of preparations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arrange the tables

Focuses on the aesthetic aspect of positioning tables.

prepare the tables

Emphasizes making the tables ready for use, rather than specifically arranging items on them.

lay the table

A more traditional idiom, common in British English, referring to setting cutlery and dishes.

dress the tables

Suggests decorating the tables, often for a special event.

get the tables ready

A more casual way to express preparing tables.

put out the place settings

Highlights the act of placing individual settings at each seat.

ready the tables

A slightly more formal way to say prepare the tables.

prepare the dining area

Broadens the action to include the entire dining space, not just the tables.

organize the seating

Emphasizes the arrangement of seats around the tables.

set up the dining area

Includes all aspects of getting the dining area ready, not just the tables.

FAQs

How can I use "set the tables" in a sentence?

You can use "set the tables" to describe the act of preparing tables for a meal or event. For example, "Before the party, we need to set the tables with linens and silverware".

What's the difference between "lay the table" and "set the tables"?

"Lay the table" is a British English idiom that is largely synonymous with "set the tables", although it often specifically refers to placing cutlery and dishes.

What can I say instead of "set the tables"?

You could use alternatives such as "arrange the tables", "prepare the tables", or "ready the tables" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "setting the tables"?

Yes, "setting the tables" is the gerund form of the phrase and is grammatically correct. For example, "Setting the tables is my responsibility before dinner".