still on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'still on the table' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is still up for discussion or consideration. For example, "We haven't come to a final decision yet, so that option is still on the table."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It is still on the table.

The New York Times

This is still on the table.

The New York Times - Sports

Incredibly, torture is still on the table.

The New York Times

The offer is still on the table".

The New York Times

"That's still on the table," Mr. Bush said.

The New York Times

But that cat was still on the table.

The Guardian - Opinion

"But how it will occur is still on the table".

The New York Times

"There are a lot of issues still on the table.

The Guardian

Is the $1,000 still on the table?

The New York Times

Smith said that issue was still on the table.

The New York Times - Sports

The bottle of wine was still on the table.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "still on the table" to clearly communicate that an option, plan, or idea has not been rejected and is available for further consideration. This is especially useful in negotiations, planning discussions, and strategic decision-making.

Common error

Avoid using "still on the table" if you intend to imply that an option is unlikely or disfavored. The phrase suggests continued viability, not just technical possibility. Be clear about the degree of consideration an item is receiving.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "still on the table" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating that something, such as a plan, proposal, or option, is still being considered and has not been rejected. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "still on the table" is a common and grammatically sound idiom used to indicate that a plan, proposal, or option remains under consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides ample examples of its use in various contexts, including news, business, and more informal settings. When using this phrase, be clear about the degree of consideration the item is receiving to avoid misunderstandings. Alternatives such as ""under consideration"" or ""not off the table"" can be used to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not off the table

A more direct way of saying something hasn't been ruled out.

remains an option

Directly states that something is still a viable choice.

yet to be decided

Focuses on the fact that a decision has not been made.

under consideration

Focuses on the act of considering something, implying it hasn't been dismissed.

under review

Suggests that something is being examined or assessed.

open for discussion

Emphasizes the willingness to discuss or debate something further.

being deliberated

Highlights the process of careful and thoughtful discussion.

viable possibility

Highlights that something is still a realistic and workable possibility.

up for grabs

Indicates that a decision or outcome is not yet determined and available to anyone.

in contention

Implies that something is still being actively competed for or considered.

FAQs

How can I use "still on the table" in a sentence?

You can use "still on the table" to indicate that an option or plan is still being considered. For example, "We haven't made a final decision yet; all options are "still on the table"".

What does "still on the table" mean?

"Still on the table" means that something has not been rejected and remains a possibility or option for consideration.

What's a good alternative to "still on the table"?

Alternatives include "under consideration", "remains an option", or "not off the table" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "still on the table" in formal writing?

Yes, "still on the table" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in business, news reporting, and academic contexts where you need to clearly state that an option remains viable.