The idiom “Bring to the table” means to do something that will benefit others. If you bring something to the table, you make a contribution or an offer in a discussion or negotiation. It typically means to contribute or supply a valuable ability or quality to a joint work, activity, or attempt.
The phrase “bring to the table” has its roots in gambling and refers to the initial wager that a player makes in a card game that other players may win. Bringing “a lot” to the table signifies the possibility that your contribution will benefit everyone. In the context of leaving a card game where there is still money to be won, the expression “to leave something on the table” is used. The idiom also started to attain its current level of popularity in the 1980s.
Usage with example
A few examples of the idiom “Bring to the Table” are:
- Irene is a strong contender for the position because she brings a lot to the table in terms of experience.
- Knowing what you can bring to the table and what you want in return during a negotiation is crucial.
- The company is seeking someone who can bring new and innovative ideas to the table.
- Although I’m unsure of what I can bring to the table, I’m eager to participate.
- To be effective, the project team needs to bring a range of knowledge and abilities to the table.
- He offered valuable insights that helped shape the project’s direction.
- The new team member can provide expertise in data analysis.
- She presented a compelling argument that swayed the decision in our favor.
- The consultant delivered practical solutions to improve our workflow.
- He introduced an innovative approach that streamlined our processes.
- Her perspective added depth to our understanding of the issue.
Also Read: Break the Ice- Idiom
Origin on Bring To The Table
The phrase “bring to the table” is commonly used in English to mean contributing something of value, such as skills, ideas, or resources, to a discussion or project. Its origin is somewhat unclear, but it is generally understood to derive from the literal act of bringing food or items to a table for a meal or a gathering. In a metaphorical sense, “bringing something to the table” implies offering something beneficial to a collective effort. This usage has been prevalent in business, negotiations, and collaborative contexts where participants are expected to contribute their strengths and resources for a common goal.
Bring To The Table Synonyms
The synonyms for the Idiom Bring to the Table are:
- Come to someone’s rescue
- Contribute to
- Do someone a service
- Give someone a leg up
- Lend a hand to
- Offer
- Present
- Introduce
- Provide
- Supply
- Submit
- Deliver
- Add
- Put forward
Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences and Meanings
Bring To The Table Quiz
I wish to Bring to the table the________
- Solution for the current tax issue
- Fruits kept there
- Books to read them
Answer: Solution for the current tax issue
Also Read: Idioms for IELTS
FAQs
What do you understand by idioms in English Grammar?
English idioms are expressions that go beyond the literal meanings of their words. They convey figurative meanings that can’t be deciphered just by interpreting each word in isolation. Idioms are commonly used in everyday language. For example, if someone is “beating around the bush,” they are avoiding directly addressing a topic or issue in conversation.
What are idioms for food?
Food idioms refer to expressions in language that use food-related terms metaphorically to convey meaning. Here are a few well-known examples: “Take something with a grain of salt” suggests approaching information sceptically. “That’s the way the cookie crumbles” describes accepting an uncontrollable situation.
What are proverbs in English Grammar?
A proverb is a brief statement frequently quoted that offers advice or conveys insights about life. For instance, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” illustrates this concept.
This was all about the idiom “Bring to the table” meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.