step up to the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "step up to the table" is correct and is used in written English.
It is typically used as a metaphor to express the action of taking responsibility or ownership for something. For example, "Bob decided to step up to the table and take the lead on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But as more and more politicians step up to the table, don't bet against a change in the law.

The New York Times

I would encourage investors globally to say look guys if you're not going to disclose, you're not going to step up to the table, then really you shouldn't be taken as a serious investment opportunity".

The Guardian

Asked what would be the consequences for NATO if its members did not "step up to the table" by sending trainers, Mr. Rasmussen replied: "A lot is at stake, for the Afghan people, for the international community and for NATO as an alliance".

The New York Times

So for people to buy homes in this country they need to step up to the table with a large amount of cash in hand.

Forbes

Step up to the table like real men or women and subject your work to the withering scrutiny of peer review.

HuffPost

That's the tact Facebook executive Sheryl Sandberg's made famous with her book "Lean In," which advises that women step up to the table and work hard to get noticed.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Inland, terraced fields step up to the table-top hills and down into deep valleys of bamboo beards.

The Guardian - Travel

Judlene Colas, 26, stepped up to the table to register her 3-year-old.

The New York Times

Now, however, Atlantic City's council is stepping up to the table, unanimously approving a proposed ban and scheduling a final vote for Dec. 29.

The New York Times

I'd been signing for almost six hours, and when she finally stepped up to the table my mind went blank.

The New Yorker

Neil Robertson steps up to the table.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "step up to the table" when you want to emphasize taking decisive action or responsibility in a situation, especially when others are hesitant.

Common error

Avoid using "step up to the table" in a literal sense unless the context clearly indicates a metaphorical meaning. Using it literally can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step up to the table" functions as an idiom, conveying the idea of taking responsibility or action. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "step up to the table" effectively conveys the act of assuming responsibility or taking decisive action. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is correct and widely used. Its usage spans various contexts, with a prevalence in news and media. While generally neutral, its informal nature suggests caution in strictly formal settings. Alternatives such as "take the initiative" or "assume responsibility" may be more suitable depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assume responsibility

This phrase directly states the act of taking accountability for something.

accept accountability

Similar to assuming responsibility but emphasizes being answerable for actions.

take the initiative

This suggests being proactive and starting something without being told.

take the lead

This implies guiding or directing a group or project.

take charge

This indicates assuming control and directing a situation.

take the reins

This alternative implies assuming control or leadership in a situation.

rise to the occasion

This implies meeting a challenge or difficult situation with competence.

shoulder the burden

This suggests taking on a difficult task or responsibility.

become involved

Suggests actively participating and engaging in a task or situation.

get in the game

This idiom suggests joining an activity or competition.

FAQs

How can I use "step up to the table" in a sentence?

You can use "step up to the table" to describe someone who takes responsibility. For example, "When the project needed a leader, she decided to "step up to the table" and guide the team".

What's a good alternative to "step up to the table"?

Alternatives to "step up to the table" include "take the initiative", "assume responsibility", or "take charge". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "step up to the table" formal or informal?

"Step up to the table" is generally considered an informal idiom, although it's acceptable in many professional contexts. In very formal situations, consider using a more direct phrase like "assume responsibility".

What does it mean to "step up to the table"?

To "step up to the table" means to take action, assume responsibility, or become actively involved in a situation, especially when leadership or initiative is needed.