table an alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "table an alternative" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in discussions or meetings to suggest postponing or setting aside an alternative option for later consideration. Example: "During the meeting, we decided to table an alternative proposal until we gather more information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In the memo, Thompson puts on the table an "alternative option" to making Byford redundant if the proposal is deemed "simply too expensive and sensitive".

The Guardian

Separately Tom Watson, Labour's deputy leader, is expected to table an alternative plan; for MPs to elect most shadow cabinet posts – a system abolished by Ed Miliband.

The Guardian

Former minister Janet Anderson is to table an alternative amendment to the Terrorism Bill which would raise the maximum detention limit from the current 14 days to 60 days.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But Labour quickly tabled an alternative proposal, which is expected to be debated in the Lords on Tuesday.

The Guardian

His proposal, which emerged from Labour's refugee taskforce, chaired by former minister Yvette Cooper, was narrowly defeated in the House of Commons on Monday night but Dubs has now tabled an alternative proposal, which will be debated in the Lords on Tuesday.

The Guardian

While not crazy about 5 a.m. wake-up calls, Williams took up deer hunting to put fresh meat on the table as an alternative to the factory farming she totally opposes.

Huffington Post

This table shows an alternative to measuring algorithm performance with different calibration parameters, using Linnaean taxonomy to infer cluster quality.

BMC Genomics

In human PI4P 5-kinase Type Iα (Table 1) an alternative pair of D-domains (KGERLLLYI and KGERLLLYIGI) overlaps with a different D-domain (RNSKGERLLL).

Cell Communication and Signaling

Greece has until week's end, EU leaders warn, to table a credible alternative or go broke and flunk out of the euro currency group.

Los Angeles Times

Three or five small, identical arrangements can look attractive arranged along a table or side board as an alternative to one large arrangement.

WikiHow

This paper introduces the Grid Diagram Table (GDT) as an alternative tool for determining pinch points and utility targets as well as for the retrofitting of HEN.

Journal of Cleaner Production

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "table an alternative" in formal settings, such as meetings or debates, when you want to formally present an alternative for consideration. It suggests a structured discussion around different options.

Common error

Avoid using "table an alternative" when you simply mean to discuss or brainstorm alternatives. "Table" implies a more formal presentation and potential decision-making process, not just an open discussion. Instead of "table", you can "present an alternative".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "table an alternative" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of formally introducing or suggesting an alternative proposal or option, often in a structured or official setting, as supported by the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "table an alternative" is a verb phrase signifying the act of formally presenting an alternative proposal, often within a structured meeting or debate setting. While grammatically sound and understandable, it's relatively rare. It is most commonly found in news, science and business contexts. When considering usage, remember that "table" implies a formal presentation, not merely a casual discussion. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, typically used to suggest postponing or setting aside an alternative option for later consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

propose an alternative

Replaces "table" with "propose", focusing on the act of suggesting rather than the formal process of tabling.

present an alternative

Emphasizes the act of making an alternative known or available.

offer an alternative

Focuses on providing an alternative as a choice.

put forward an alternative

Implies a more assertive presentation of an alternative.

suggest an alternative

A more general way of proposing a different option.

introduce an alternative

Highlights the action of bringing an alternative into consideration.

submit an alternative proposal

More formal and specific, referring to a written proposal.

advance an alternative

Emphasizes moving forward with a different option.

set forth an alternative

A more formal way to present an alternative for deliberation.

float an alternative idea

Suggests a less formal, exploratory introduction of an alternative.

FAQs

What does "table an alternative" mean?

To "table an alternative" means to formally suggest or present an alternative proposal or option for consideration, often in a meeting or formal setting. It implies putting the alternative on the agenda for discussion.

How can I use "table an alternative" in a sentence?

You might say, "During the committee meeting, they decided to "table an alternative" approach to the project budget" or "The opposition party plans to "table an alternative" bill in Parliament next week".

What are some synonyms for "table an alternative"?

You could use phrases like "propose an alternative", ""present an alternative"", or "put forward an alternative". All suggest offering a different option for consideration.

Is "table an alternative" a formal expression?

Yes, "table an alternative" is generally considered a formal expression suitable for professional, academic, or political contexts. In more informal settings, you might opt for simpler alternatives like "suggest an alternative".