was on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was on the table" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something was being considered or discussed, often in a decision-making context. Example: "The proposal for the new project was on the table during the meeting, but no final decision was made."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The report stopped short of calling it a formal offer, and both sides denied that one was on the table.

The New York Times

The salad was on the table, one garlic bread was quickly demolished and the men were circling again.

The New York Times - Food

But even if one were to accept it, a more nuanced remedy was on the table.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was on the table.

The New Yorker

A $10 bill was on the table.

The New York Times

The money was on the table.

The Guardian - Music

We knew what was on the table".

The New York Times - Sports

The recorder was on the table.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's better than the alternative that was on the table".

The New York Times - Tech

A pile of Skinnygirl protein bars was on the table.

The New Yorker

"Everything was on the table," Dr. Gillies admitted.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "was on the table" to clearly indicate that a plan, idea, or proposal is being actively considered or discussed. This idiom is best suited for situations involving decision-making processes.

Common error

Avoid using "was on the table" to describe the literal placement of an object. This idiom refers to abstract concepts like plans or proposals, not physical items.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was on the table" functions as an idiomatic expression, indicating that something (a proposal, idea, or option) is currently being considered or discussed. It's used to convey that a particular matter is under deliberation, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "was on the table" is a common idiom used to indicate that something is being considered or discussed. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in News & Media. The phrase signifies active deliberation, not the physical placement of an object. Related phrases include "was under consideration" and "was being discussed". When using this idiom, ensure it refers to abstract concepts rather than physical items. "Was on the table" maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for professional and casual communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was under consideration

Focuses on the act of thinking about something, differing from the more active sense of discussion.

was being discussed

Highlights the conversational aspect rather than the potential action or decision associated with it.

was up for debate

Emphasizes the argumentative nature of the consideration, suggesting differing viewpoints.

was a possibility

Indicates potential without necessarily implying active deliberation.

was an option

Similar to "was a possibility", but often suggests a more concrete or defined alternative.

was in the cards

Suggests a higher degree of likelihood or inevitability, as if predetermined.

was being negotiated

Highlights active attempts to reach an agreement, often with compromise involved.

was a subject of deliberation

More formal and emphasizes the careful and thorough consideration of the matter.

was a matter for consideration

Similar to "was under consideration", but often suggests a wider scope or more significant implications.

was on the agenda

Implies a scheduled or planned discussion, differing from spontaneous consideration.

FAQs

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

Use "was on the table" to indicate that something, like a plan or proposal, is being considered or discussed. For example, "The merger proposal "was on the table" during the board meeting".

What does "was on the table" mean?

"Was on the table" is an idiom that means something is being considered or discussed as a possible option or course of action.

What are some alternatives to saying "was on the table"?

You can use alternatives such as "was under consideration", "was being discussed", or "was a possibility" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "was on the table" in a formal setting?

Yes, "was on the table" is acceptable in both formal and informal settings. It is commonly used in business, news, and general conversation.