sit at the table

USAGE SUMMARY

'sit at the table' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone taking a seat at the table. For example: "Please sit at the table while I set out the dishes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

One way that Sandberg suggests that we "lean in" is to sit AT the table.

Yale University

Sit at the table with loved ones.

The New York Times - Food

You can almost hear Sheryl Sandberg: Sit at the table!

The Washington Post

You have to buy chips to sit at the table.

The Guardian - Books

We sit at the table until he eats his vegetables.

The New York Times - Sports

"We must sit at the table and talk," he said.

The New York Times

I learned from him how to sit at the table.

The New Yorker

First, she said, women need to "sit at the table".

The New Yorker

I have learned to sit at the table".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's an older, sit-at-the-table-and-clap crowd, if that's your thing.

The New York Times - Travel

Sit At the Table™(SATT) is working to foster women empowerment specifically in Canada.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the table as a symbol of power, influence, or decision-making.

Common error

Avoid using "sit at the table" in contexts where it's unclear whether you're referring to a physical table or a metaphorical seat of power. If the context doesn't immediately establish the metaphorical meaning, rephrase for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "sit at the table" is as a verb phrase. It describes an action, specifically the act of taking a seat at a table. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. The phrase also serves as a figurative expression meaning to participate in discussions or have influence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Lifestyle

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sit at the table" is a common and versatile expression that functions both literally and figuratively. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly found in News & Media, it also surfaces in Academia and Lifestyle contexts. The phrase encourages participation, signifies having a voice, and implies involvement in decision-making. Related phrases like "take a seat at the table" and "join the discussion" offer alternative ways to express similar meanings. When using the phrase metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the symbolic representation of influence or power.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take a seat at the table

Emphasizes the act of taking a seat, implying participation.

have a seat at the table

Similar to "take a seat", but suggests an invitation or opportunity to participate.

join the discussion

Focuses on participating in a conversation, rather than the physical act of sitting.

be part of the conversation

Highlights the act of being included in the discussion, emphasizing active involvement.

participate in the meeting

More formal, specifically referring to involvement in a meeting.

get involved in the discussion

Emphasizes becoming actively engaged in the conversation.

be present at the meeting

Focuses on physical attendance, rather than active participation.

attend the meeting

Simply refers to being at the meeting, without implying any specific role.

engage in the dialogue

Highlights active participation through exchanging ideas.

contribute to the discussion

Focuses on providing input and adding value to the conversation.

FAQs

What does it mean to metaphorically "sit at the table"?

Metaphorically, to "sit at the table" means to have a position of influence or to be actively involved in decision-making processes. It signifies having a voice and being part of important discussions.

How can I encourage someone to "sit at the table" in a meeting?

Encourage someone to "sit at the table" by creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard. You can directly invite them to share their thoughts or perspectives, making them feel valued and empowered to participate.

What's the difference between "have a seat at the table" and "sit at the table"?

"Have a seat at the table" implies an invitation or opportunity to participate, while "sit at the table" simply refers to the act of being present and involved.

What are some alternatives to "sit at the table" that emphasize active participation?

Alternatives that emphasize active participation include "join the discussion", "be part of the conversation", and "contribute to the discussion". These options focus on the engagement rather than just the presence.