set the table
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Explain Bivens doctrine now, to set the table for what follows.
From Slate ● Jan. 26, 2026
It could help set the table for Carney to say the "private sector says they want a deal. What can we do?" said Mr Sands.
From BBC ● Nov. 25, 2025
Does Hackford think “La Bamba” helped set the table for subsequent Latino pop star success?
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 2, 2025
“Dune: Prophecy,” a prequel based on Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson’s “Great Schools of Dune” trilogy, has about six hours to set the table and whet our appetite.
From Salon ● Nov. 17, 2024
Heather is going to set the table and hang the banner.
From "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.