212.- On the table. Profesor

 

 

 

On the table
https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2023/ep-230703

 

 

Introduction
In this programme, we talk about an idiom that’s often used in business. It describes someone showing a plan or offer for others to consider and negotiate. Find about ‘on the table’, and see if you can use it in your English conversation.

 

 

Transcript

 

Jiaying

Welcome to The English We Speak. I’m Jiaying…

Rob

…and I’m Rob. We have a phrase that’s often used in business – we say it when someone suggests a plan or makes an offer for other people to consider. We say this suggestion or plan is ‘on the table’.

Jiaying

‘On the table’. So, is this about putting something onto a table?

Rob

Possibly, yes. That’s the literal meaning, but the phrase is usually used metaphorically.

Jiaying

I see. So, it’s about information being made available to consider – so a decision can be made.

Rob

Not so fast, Jiaying. When something is on the table, it is considered and discussed before a decision is made – it can be negotiated. For example, if you’re looking for a new job, an employer might put a job offer on the table for you to consider. Let’s hear some more examples…

 

Examples
The bank has put an offer to buy its rival on the table. Will they accept?
We’ve put a new pay offer on the table. Let’s hope the employees will accept it.
There are several issues on the table that we need to discuss before we can make a decision.

 

Jiaying

This is The English We Speak from BBC Learning English, and we’re looking at the phrase ‘on the table’ which means to put an idea, suggestion or plan forward for others to discuss or consider.

Rob

The phrase is used to discuss serious situations – you wouldn’t put a suggestion to go to the cinema ‘on the table’.

Jiaying

And when something is ‘on the table’ it can be negotiated before a decision is made.

Rob

Yes, that’s true. So, if an offer of a great job, with a good pension, good pay and free tea and coffee was on the table, would you take it?

Jiaying

Would I be working with you?

Rob

Well, of course!

Jaying

Let me think about it! Bye for now.

Rob

Bye.