table it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "table it" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a meeting or discussion context to suggest postponing or setting aside a topic for future consideration. Example: "We have a lot to cover today, so let's table it for now and revisit this issue at our next meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

On a table, it looks really classy".

The New York Times - Food

With the data on the table, it was obvious.

The New York Times

The low table, it turns out, was a mistake.

The New Yorker

When he whacks it on the table, it doesn't produce the right thump.

Princeton University

At the other table, it was passed out.

The New York Times

With tissue paper patterns hanging just above the table, it began to spread quickly.

The New York Times

"And the recordings don't put food on their table, it doesn't get them a gig".

The New York Times

On the table it looks like a well-crafted piece of technology should.

The Guardian - Tech

Though rare on the modern table, it is proof that the best is yet to come.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's like pouring a glass of water on a flat table … it just keeps spreading out.

The Guardian - Travel

No electronic or external social interruptions at the table -- it was pure family time.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "table it" when you want to postpone a discussion or decision without completely rejecting the idea. It implies a temporary delay, with the possibility of revisiting the topic later.

Common error

Avoid using "table it" if you intend to dismiss the idea entirely. This phrase suggests a temporary postponement, not a final rejection. If you want to reject the idea, use phrases like "reject the proposal" or "dismiss the idea" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "table it" functions as a directive, used to propose the postponement of a discussion, decision, or action. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its appropriate usage in various contexts, aiming to temporarily set aside a topic for later consideration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

21%

Science

18%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Reference

6%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "table it" is a common and generally accepted way to propose postponing a discussion or decision. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, including news, business, and science. While considered neutral in register, it's important to remember that it implies a temporary delay rather than a final dismissal. When a more formal tone is needed, consider alternatives like "defer the matter". Understanding these nuances ensures effective communication and avoids potential misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

postpone consideration

Emphasizes delaying the act of thinking about or discussing something.

defer the matter

Highlights putting off a specific issue or subject.

hold off on

Focuses on temporarily stopping or delaying progress on something.

shelve the discussion

Implies setting aside a topic, often with the possibility of revisiting it later.

put on hold

Suggests a temporary suspension of activity.

delay the decision

Highlights postponing a specific judgement or resolution.

suspend deliberation

Focuses on the interruption of careful thought or discussion.

hold in abeyance

Implies temporarily keeping something inactive or suspended.

adjourn the topic

Suggests formally postponing discussion of a specific matter.

mothball the plan

Implies putting a project or plan into storage for possible future use.

FAQs

How to use "table it" in a sentence?

You can use "table it" to suggest postponing a discussion or decision. For example, "Let's "table it" for now and revisit the issue next week."

What does "table it" mean in a business context?

In a business context, "table it" means to postpone a decision or discussion on a particular topic. It suggests that the issue will be revisited at a later time.

What can I say instead of "table it"?

You can use alternatives like "postpone consideration", "defer the matter", or "put on hold" depending on the context.

Is "table it" formal or informal?

"Table it" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both professional and informal settings, although more formal alternatives like "defer the matter" may be preferred in certain contexts.