table
To postpone discussion or consideration of something
Examples
In a meeting
“Let's table this discussion until we have more data.”
Over coffee
“Can we table the vacation planning until after finals?”
Why this word
postpone
table means formally setting aside for later consideration in meetings, while postpone is general delay without parliamentary connotation
defer
table specifically means suspending discussion in formal settings, while defer broadly means putting off without the procedural context
shelve
table implies temporary suspension with intent to revisit, while shelve often suggests indefinite abandonment
Usage tip
Common in meetings to temporarily shelve topics. Note: in British English, it means the opposite (to present for discussion).
Etymology
From noun 'table' (Latin 'tabula' meaning board), metaphorically meaning to lay aside on a table
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Related words
align
To bring into agreement or proper coordination with something else.
reconvene
Come together again after a break
adjourn
To pause or end a meeting with intention to resume later
alternate
To switch back and forth between two or more things
quorum
The minimum number of members required to be present for valid proceedings
clarify
To make something easier to understand by giving more details or a simpler explanation.