under the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'under the table' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe an activity that is being done secretly, often illegally or in a way that someone does not want to be known. For example, "The two were making shady deals under the table."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Under the table.

The New Yorker

Kicks me under the table.

The New Yorker

Moriarity dived under the table.

The New Yorker

But they never looked under the table".

Independent

Under the table, his knee brushed mine.

The New York Times

"I kick her under the table.

The New York Times - Magazine

Now it is under the table.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Under-the-table hush money.

The New York Times

Under-the-table payments are commonplace.

The Economist

Berlin provided generous under-the-table financing to his enterprises.

The New York Times - Books

Did they make an under-the-table deal about Sinai?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under the table" to describe payments, ensure the context clearly indicates the illegality or unethical nature of the transaction. For example: "The contractor received a significant portion of his payment under the table to avoid taxes."

Common error

Avoid using "under the table" in contexts where a literal physical position is meant if the phrase's idiomatic meaning could cause confusion. Instead, clarify with phrasing like "beneath the table" or "directly under the table".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under the table" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed, typically indicating secrecy, illegality, or informality. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it often modifies verbs related to payments or agreements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under the table" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that functions as an adverbial modifier, typically describing actions done secretly, often with implications of illegality or unethical behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives like "secretly" or "covertly" exist, "under the table" carries a unique connotation of illicit dealings. When writing, be mindful of the figurative meaning to avoid confusion, and ensure the context aligns with the intended implication of secrecy or illegality. The analysis of Ludwig examples showed that this expression can be seen in various contexts, mostly in the news media, while other contexts, such as science or encyclopedias are very rare.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

secretly

This alternative focuses on the manner of the action, emphasizing its hidden nature.

in secret

This directly states that the action is not public.

covertly

This emphasizes the attempt to avoid observation.

surreptitiously

Highlights the stealthy nature of the action.

off the record

Specifically indicates that something is not for public knowledge.

behind closed doors

This describes the setting where the action happens, implying secrecy.

unofficially

Suggests the action lacks formal approval or recognition.

on the sly

Informal way of saying something is done secretively.

sub rosa

A more formal and less common way to say "in secret".

hush-hush

Highlights the secrecy and need for silence surrounding the action.

FAQs

How can I use "under the table" in a sentence?

You can use "under the table" to describe actions done secretly or illegally, like "The deal was negotiated "under the table" to avoid scrutiny".

What does "under the table" mean in business?

In a business context, "under the table" typically refers to transactions or payments made illegally or without proper documentation, such as "Under-the-table payments are a common problem in the construction industry".

What's the difference between "secretly" and "under the table"?

"Secretly" simply means done in secret. "Under the table" often implies illegality or unethical behavior in addition to being secret.

Is it always wrong to do things "under the table"?

Generally, yes. The phrase "under the table" usually refers to something that is illegal, unethical, or against the rules. While there might be very rare exceptions, it's best to avoid activities that need to be conducted "under the table".