be on the table

be on the table

To be available or put forward, as for consideration, acceptance, discussion, etc. I wouldn't wait too long to accept the job offer—it might not be on the table for very long. Before this meeting begins, we'd like to have assurances that the possibility of restoring holiday bonuses is going to be on the table.See also: on, table

on the table

Fig. subject to discussion by the group; submitted as a point of discussion. The chairman said we could not discuss salaries since the topic was no longer on the table.See also: on, table

on the table

1. Up for discussion, as in There are two new proposals on the table. [Mid-1600s] 2. Postponed or put aside for later consideration, as in When they adjourned, three items were put on the table until the next meeting. [First half of 1700s] The table in both idioms is a figurative conference table. Also see lay one's cards on the table. See also: on, table

on the table

COMMON If a proposal, plan, or offer is on the table, it is has been formally suggested and people can discuss it. The Americans and others have not yet put their proposals on the table. The offer on the table is part of the long-term policy to control taxation within the EU.See also: on, table

on the ˈtable

(British English) used in business, to talk about a suggestion, plan or amount of money which is being discussed or offered: In today’s meeting there were several new proposals on the table. ♢ The company can put an extra one per cent on the table, in return for an agreement on overtime.See also: on, table

on the table

1. Up for discussion: Her new offer is on the table.2. Put aside for consideration at a later date.See also: on, table