on the table

Idioms  

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 .

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Example Sentences

While formal discussions have begun with Mexico, which has a larger amount of issues on the table including security and immigration, relations with Canada remain fraught.

From Barron's • Jun. 29, 2026

If it’s 6%, then it’s a no-brainer to say you should consider at least bumping up your contributions by 1 percentage point so that you don’t leave free money on the table.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 29, 2026

Consumer prices were up 4.2%, a three-year high, in May, and Fed officials indicated at a meeting last week that further rate increases are on the table.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 23, 2026

The funding had been on the table for a sharp reduction as one of many proposed cuts to avoid insolvency in two to three years.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 22, 2026

I leaned forward, elbows on the table and chin resting on my hands.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith