have a seat at the table
Meaning: To be included in the discussions where decisions are made.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Example: “The nurses want a seat at the table when the hospital plans its budget.”
Category: Daily Life
Origin: The table is the negotiating or boardroom table. The figurative phrase became common in the late 20th century; its first use has not been traced.
Equivalents in other languages
- French: Avoir voix au chapitre — literally: To have a voice in the chapter
More idioms — Daily Life
- find Mr. Right — To find the ideal romantic partner.
- all roads lead to Rome — There are many ways to reach the same goal.
- shut up shop — To close a business, either for the day or for good.
- penny wise and pound foolish — Careful with small amounts of money but wasteful with large ones.
- meet someone halfway — To make a compromise with someone.
- wear sackcloth and ashes — To show public regret or repentance.
More English idioms
- a snake-oil salesman — A swindler who sells fake remedies or worthless solutions.
- it doesn't take a rocket scientist — Something is easy to understand; no special intelligence is needed.
- do a moonlight flit — To leave one's home secretly at night, usually to avoid paying rent or debts.
- pipped at the post — To be beaten at the very last moment.
- twiddle one's thumbs — To do nothing while waiting or out of boredom.
- a nest of vipers — A group of people who scheme against or betray each other.