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off the table
01
(of a proposal, topic, or offer) unavailable or incapable of being considered
What is the origin of the idiom "off the table" and when to use it?
The idiom "off the table" is used to indicate that a particular option, plan, or proposal has been eliminated, excluded, or is no longer under consideration. While its exact origin is not documented, it likely stems from the idea of removing something from the table during a discussion, emphasizing that it is no longer on the list of possibilities.
Example
After hours of negotiation, the idea of a pay raise was off the table for the foreseeable future.
The cat knocked the vase off the table.
Discussing the controversial policy was off the table, as it was clear that it wouldn't gain the necessary support.
She whisked the dust off the table with a feather duster.
The clumsy dog wagged its tail enthusiastically, inadvertently tumbling the coffee cup off the table.
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