"on the table" vs "at the table"

Question

"on the table" vs "at the table"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'At the table' is used when someone is sitting and participating in a meal or discussion, while 'on the table' is used when something is physically placed on the surface of the table.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

Use 'on the table' when describing the location of something physically placed on the surface of the table.

Examples:

The book is on the table.
Please put the dishes on the table.
There are flowers on the table.

Alternatives:

placed on the table
resting on the table
lying on the table
sitting on the table
located on the table

Use 'at the table' when describing someone's position while sitting and participating in a meal or discussion.

Examples:

Please have a seat at the table.
She was sitting at the table during the meeting.
We all gathered at the table for dinner.

Alternatives:

sitting at the table
participating at the table
engaged at the table
present at the table
joining at the table

Answer 1

on the table

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to something physically placed on the surface of the table.

Answer 2

at the table

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to someone sitting and participating in a meal or discussion.

"on the table" vs "at the table"

on the table

at the table

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