Work on the table vs Work at the table

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Work on the table' implies physically working on top of the table, while 'work at the table' suggests working while sitting at the table.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 • 1471 views

This phrase is correct and implies physically working on top of the table.

"Work on the table"

This phrase is used when someone is actually working on the surface of the table, such as painting, fixing something, or assembling objects.

Examples:

She was working on the table, painting a beautiful landscape.
He was working on the table, fixing the broken chair leg.
The artist worked on the table, creating a masterpiece.
The carpenter worked on the table, assembling the parts of the cabinet.
The students worked on the table, collaborating on the project.

Show examples from the web [+]

The Member States should not put all the work on the table again at the Intergovernmental Conference.
Please leave your work on the table and be sure your name's on it.
Remember, work on the sync in the table top combination and make sure that Trey sticks her full back.
This work is now on the table.
Let's crack this Gary Blauman nut first, and then we'll work on the fat guy table.
Fillets and slices must not remain on the work tables beyond the time necessary for their preparation and must be protected from contamination by suitable wrapping.
NPT 2010 Review Conference work: what is on the table?
Right. Only management could work the table?
That want to work under the table.
I did some work there under the table.
Someone moved my work table three inches to the right.
Well, Darrell's a handyman, and sometimes he does electrical work under the table.
Okay, Luis, here's how the tables work.
But I work under the table to pay my taxes and my student loan.
You shouldn't talk about work around the table anyway. I learned that the hard way.
Here I am, 20 years later, and I still work on this table every day.
It's just a matter of practice before Malkovich is nothing more than another puppet hanging next to my work table.
I wish you'd leave my work table alone.
Fillets and slices must not remain on work tables any longer than is necessary for their preparation.
Okay, so I've got work on one table, and I've got wine on another.

Alternatives:

work on top of the table
work on the surface of the table

This phrase is correct and implies working while sitting at the table.

"Work at the table"

This phrase is used when someone is working while seated at the table, such as studying, writing, or using a laptop.

Examples:

She was working at the table, studying for her exam.
He was working at the table, writing a report.
The children were working at the table, doing their homework.
The team was working at the table, brainstorming ideas.
I usually work at the table when I need to focus.

Show examples from the web [+]

Okay, let's get back to work at the periodic table, which...
Right. Only management could work the table?
That want to work under the table.
I did some work there under the table.
Someone moved my work table three inches to the right.
Well, Darrell's a handyman, and sometimes he does electrical work under the table.
Okay, Luis, here's how the tables work.
But I work under the table to pay my taxes and my student loan.
You shouldn't talk about work around the table anyway. I learned that the hard way.
The Member States should not put all the work on the table again at the Intergovernmental Conference.
It's just a matter of practice before Malkovich is nothing more than another puppet hanging next to my work table.
I wish you'd leave my work table alone.
Can you work at a drafting table until they bring your things over tomorrow?
Fillets and slices must not remain on work tables any longer than is necessary for their preparation.
Fillets and slices must not remain on the work tables beyond the time necessary for their preparation and must be protected from contamination by suitable wrapping.
Please leave your work on the table and be sure your name's on it.
'Cause I work a table at Caesar's that's frequented by no less than 3 lawyers.
Thus, with the majority of the Commission's financial and legislative proposals already on the table, work is currently under way within the Council, aimed at possibly reaching decisions on principles and guidelines this month.
'Fillets and slices must not remain on work tables any longer than is necessary for their preparation and must be protected from contamination by appropriate packaging.'
Then I'll work the blackjack table.

Alternatives:

work while sitting at the table
work seated at the table

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Work on the table vs Work at the table

"Work on the table"

"Work at the table"

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