English idiom

put something on the table

Register · Neutral CEFR B1

Post

Figurative meaning

to offer something for consideration in a discussion or negotiation

Why this phrase?

The deal table: an offer only exists once it's on the table.

Example

“They put a generous acquisition offer on the table.”

Dictionary details

Alternate forms

put an offer on the table

Component words

table

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

lay your cards on the table

to be completely honest about your intentions or position

ballpark figure

a rough estimate, not an exact number

give and take

mutual compromise in which each side makes concessions

meet someone halfway

to compromise with someone

call someone's bluff

to challenge someone to prove that their threat or claim is real

hold all the cards

to be in a position of complete control in a negotiation

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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