What is table? Pronunciation and usage in English

table means . Learn how to pronounce and use table through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of table

tablenoun

/ˈteɪbl/
Definition & pronunciation of table

The word "table" is pronounced "tay-buhl".

Here's a breakdown:

  • tay: Like the word "tie"
  • buhl: Like the word "bull" (but with a shorter, softer "u" sound)

You can hear it clearly here: https://www.merriam-webster.com/audio/pronunciation/table

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Usage and examples with the word table in English

Let's break down how to use the word "table" in English. It's a really versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. Furniture (Most Common Usage)

  • Definition: A piece of furniture with a flat top and legs, used for eating, writing, or displaying things.
  • Examples:
    • "We sat down at the table for dinner."
    • "I need to clear the table after lunch."
    • "She wrote on the table while waiting for her appointment."
    • "He has a large wooden table in his study."
    • "A round table is ideal for a small dining room."

2. A List or Arrangement of Information

  • Definition: An organized presentation of data, facts, or figures. This is a more formal usage.
  • Examples:
    • "The table below shows the sales figures for the quarter." (Referring to a spreadsheet)
    • "I need to create a table of contents for my report."
    • "The researchers presented their findings in a detailed table."
    • "Let's summarize the data in a table."

3. A Group of People

  • Definition: A group of people sitting together, often for a formal occasion. (This usage is becoming less common, but still used).
  • Examples:
    • "The table of dignitaries was very important." (Referring to a group of important people present at a meeting)
    • "They hosted a formal table for the ambassador."

4. A Surface on a Machine (Technical)

  • Definition: A flat surface on a piece of machinery.
  • Examples:
    • "The computer table is where you plug in the monitor." (Referring to the base of a monitor)
    • “He adjusted the height of the table on the printing press.”

5. (Verb - To Set Out)

  • Definition: To arrange things on a surface, especially food on a table.
  • Examples:
    • “She tabled the proposal for a vote.” (meaning she presented it formally)
    • "Please table the discussion until we have more information." (meaning to postpone/delay the discussion)

Let's look at some variations and related words:

  • Tables: Plural of "table."
  • Tableware: Plates, cutlery, glasses, etc. – items used at a table.
  • Set (of tables): A complete collection of tableware.
  • Tablecloth: A cloth placed on a table.
  • Dining table: Specifically for eating.
  • Conference table: For meetings.
  • Card table: A small table often used for playing cards.

Tips for Using "Table" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Formal vs. Informal: “Table” as a list/arrangement is more formal than “table” as furniture.

Could you tell me:

  • Are you trying to use "table" in a specific context? (e.g., writing, conversation, a particular subject?)
  • Do you want me to elaborate on a specific usage you're unsure about?

Synonyms for the word table

Practice with vocabulary table

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project team often gathers around the large conference ______ to brainstorm ideas.
  2. Analysts presented the quarterly sales data in a comprehensive ______ detailing regional performance.
  3. She organizes her documents meticulously, placing important files on her ______ rather than stacking them on the floor.
  4. For complex financial projections, a detailed ______ software is indispensable for tracking variables.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following can serve as a primary surface for working, eating, or displaying items in a room? A) Desk B) Shelf C) Table D) Podium

  2. In a formal meeting setting, what does it mean to "table a motion"? A) To bring it up for immediate discussion. B) To postpone its consideration until a later time. C) To vote on it immediately. D) To remove it from the agenda permanently.

  3. Which of these is the most appropriate way to organize numerical data in rows and columns for clear analysis? A) a narrative report B) a table C) a diagram D) a flowchart

  4. If you want to visualize trends and comparisons between different datasets over time, which display method would be most effective? A) a simple list B) a detailed paragraph C) a graph D) a glossary

  5. What do you call a piece of office furniture with a flat top and often drawers, specifically designed for a single person to work at? A) a podium B) a stool C) a desk D) a cabinet

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The board decided to defer the proposal for further review next month. (Rewrite using a form of "table")
  2. The researcher presented a visual representation of the experimental results, organized in rows and columns. (Rewrite using a form of "table")
  3. Please ensure all sensitive documents are kept on the designated flat surface in your office when you leave. (Rewrite without using "table")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. table
  2. table
  3. desk
  4. spreadsheet

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. A) Desk, C) Table
  2. B) To postpone its consideration until a later time.
  3. B) a table
  4. C) a graph
  5. C) a desk

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The board decided to table the proposal for further review next month.
  2. The researcher presented a table of the experimental results.
  3. Please ensure all sensitive documents are kept on the designated desk in your office when you leave.

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