What does “Under the table” mean?
"Under the table" means to do something secretly or illegally.
What context can I use the in?
Example
They made a deal under the table to avoid paying taxes.
Example
He was paid under the table for his work.
Example
The company was involved in under the table dealings
Is “Under the table” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Under the table” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Under the table” effectively in context?
You can use "Under the Table" to describe a situation where something is done secretly or illegally, often involving dishonesty or evasion. For example, if someone is paid "under the table", it means they are receiving payment without it being reported or taxed. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this idiom:
- 1Business
They made a deal under the table to avoid paying taxes.
- 2Employment
He was paid under the table for his work.
- 3Corruption
The company was involved in under the table dealings.
Similar phrases to “Under the table”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Under the table” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Under the Table" is unknown.
Is “Under the table” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Under the Table" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe illegal or secretive activities.
What tone does “Under the table” have?
"Under the Table" conveys a tone of secrecy and dishonesty. It is typically used to describe situations that involve hidden or illegal actions.
Can “Under the table” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "under the table" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used in casual conversations rather than formal or professional contexts.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They made a deal under the table to avoid taxes.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They were paid under the table!' to imply illegal or secretive payment.
