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

Leaving profits on the table protects the brand’s reputation while it tries to put flippers out of business.

From The Wall Street Journal

But we wanted them both on the table.

From Los Angeles Times

Best enjoyed, perhaps, with something simple on the table.

From Salon

The timid 12-year-old wore a Christmas sweater and laid his head on the table as Vazquez and the other women prepared his gifts.

From Los Angeles Times

“You’re leaving a lot on the table and burning bridges in the process.”

From The Wall Street Journal