In this programme, we talk about an idiom that’s often used in business. It describes someone showing a plan or offer for others to consider and negotiate. Find about ‘on the table’, and see if you can use it in your English conversation.
Jiaying
Welcome to The English We Speak. I’m Jiaying…
Rob
…and I’m Rob. We have a phrase that’s often used in business – we say it when someone suggests a plan or makes an offer for other people to consider. We say this suggestion or plan is ‘on the table’.
Jiaying
‘On the table’. So, is this about putting something onto a table?
Rob
Possibly, yes. That’s the literal meaning, but the phrase is usually used metaphorically.
Jiaying
I see. So, it’s about information being made available to consider – so a decision can be made.
Rob
Not so fast, Jiaying. When something is on the table, it is considered and discussed before a decision is made – it can be negotiated. For example, if you’re looking for a new job, an employer might put a job offer on the table for you to consider. Let’s hear some more examples…
Examples
The bank has put an offer to buy its rival on the table. Will they accept?
We’ve put a new pay offer on the table. Let’s hope the employees will accept it.
There are several issues on the table that we need to discuss before we can make a decision.
Jiaying
This is The English We Speak from BBC Learning English, and we’re looking at the phrase ‘on the table’ which means to put an idea, suggestion or plan forward for others to discuss or consider.
Rob
The phrase is used to discuss serious situations – you wouldn’t put a suggestion to go to the cinema ‘on the table’.
Jiaying
And when something is ‘on the table’ it can be negotiated before a decision is made.
Rob
Yes, that’s true. So, if an offer of a great job, with a good pension, good pay and free tea and coffee was on the table, would you take it?
Jiaying
Would I be working with you?
Rob
Well, of course!
Jaying
Let me think about it! Bye for now.
Rob
Bye.
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