under a table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under a table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a physical location beneath a table or in a metaphorical sense, such as hiding something or being in a concealed position. Example: "The cat likes to hide under a table when there are too many people in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Gregory crawled under a table.

The New Yorker

If you can, get under a table.

The Economist

"I crawled under a table and fell asleep.

The New York Times

He pointed to an old computer case under a table.

The New Yorker

She jumped from bed and crawled under a table, screaming.

The New Yorker

THE lady in pearls was shimmying under a table.

The New York Times

It was in a suitcase under a table.

Independent

I mostly sat under a table in my family's apartment and stared at the corner.

The New York Times - Magazine

I slid the boxes down the corridor to my study and shoved them under a table.

The Guardian - Books

LAUREN'S MOM emerges from under a table and performs an original rap.

The New Yorker

I would sit under a table and not speak to anybody.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under a table" to clearly indicate a position or action taking place in the space directly beneath a table's surface. This is particularly useful in descriptive writing or safety instructions.

Common error

Avoid using "under a table" when you actually mean "near the table" or "beside the table". The phrase specifically refers to the area directly beneath the table's surface, not just in the vicinity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under a table" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase of place, modifying a verb by specifying where an action occurs. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing locations, hiding places, or states of being.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under a table" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate a location beneath a table. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While simple, it effectively conveys spatial information and serves as a reliable descriptor. Related phrases like "beneath a table" offer subtle variations in formality, but the core meaning remains consistent. Whether used literally or metaphorically, mastering "under a table" helps writers create precise and vivid descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beneath a table

Replaces "under" with "beneath", a synonym indicating a lower position.

below a table

Uses "below" instead of "under", conveying the same spatial relationship.

underneath the table

Adds "neath" for emphasis, slightly altering the rhythm of the phrase.

at the foot of the table

Emphasizes the lower end or base of the table.

crouching below the table

Specifies an action of crouching while being under the table.

hidden by the table

Highlights the action of being concealed by the table.

sheltering under the table

Emphasizes the action of seeking shelter under the table.

concealed beneath the table

Replaces "under" with "beneath", and adding "concealed" to give more emphasis on being hidden.

down near the table

Indicates a general area close to and below the table, less precise.

in the table's shadow

Metaphorically describes being under the table as being in its shadow, suggesting protection or concealment.

FAQs

How is "beneath a table" different from "under a table"?

While both phrases are largely interchangeable, "under a table" is more common in everyday speech. "Beneath a table" may be perceived as slightly more formal or literary.

Is it safer to hide "under a table" during an earthquake?

Yes, according to safety guidelines, taking cover "under a table" or sturdy furniture can protect you from falling debris during an earthquake. This is generally safer than standing in a doorway.

Can "under a table" be used metaphorically?

While primarily a physical descriptor, "under a table" can be used metaphorically to suggest hiding, concealment, or a subordinate position. However, this usage is less common than its literal sense.

What prepositions are similar to "under" in the phrase "under a table"?

Synonymous prepositions include "beneath", "below", and "underneath". The choice often depends on stylistic preference or desired emphasis.