[圖片來源：Getty Images]

內容簡介

搭配 “on the table” 的字面意思是 “在桌子上”，但它也可以被用來表示 “計劃、建議等已經被提出，擺在了桌面上，有待討論”。聽節目，學習 “on the table” 的這個用法。

文字稿

（關于臺詞的備注: 請注意這不是廣播節目的逐字稿件。本文稿可能沒有體現錄制、編輯過程中對節目做出的改變。）

Jiaying
歡迎收聽 BBC英語教學的 “地道英語” 節目，我是佳瑩。

Rob
… and I'm Rob. We have a phrase that's often used in business – we say it when someone suggests a plan or makes an offer for other people to consider. We say this suggestion or plan is 'on the table'.

Jiaying
On the table. 這個短語的字面意思是 “擺在桌面上”。

Rob
Yes, that's the literal meaning, but the phrase is usually used metaphorically.

Jiaying
原來，短語 “on the table” 的意思是 “計劃或建議已被提交，以供人們考慮或討論”。

Rob
When something is on the table, it is considered and discussed before a decision is made – it can be negotiated. For example, if you're looking for a new job, an employer might put a job offer on the table for you to consider.

Jiaying
在找工作時候，如果你被錄用，那么錄用公司可能會 “put a job offer on the table for you to consider”。Let's hear some more examples.

Examples
The bank has put an offer to buy its rival on the table. Will they accept?

We've put a new pay offer on the table. Let's hope the employees will accept it.

There are several issues on the table that we need to discuss before we can make a decision.

Jiaying
你正在收聽的是 BBC英語教學的 “地道英語” 節目。上面我們介紹了短語 “on the table” 的意思和用法，它指 “想法、建議或計劃已經被提交，以供人討論或考慮”。

Rob
The phrase is used to discuss serious situations – you wouldn't put a suggestion to go to the cinema 'on the table'.

Jiaying
And when something is 'on the table', it can be negotiated before a decision is made.

Rob
Yes, that's true. So, if a great job, with a good pension, good pay and free tea and coffee was on the table, would you take it?

Jiaying
Would I be working with you?

Rob
Of course!

Jiaying
Let me think about it! Bye for now.

Rob
Bye-bye.