set the table

English

Verb

set the table (third-person singular simple present sets the table, present participle setting the table, simple past and past participle set the table)

To arrange plates, dishes, cups and utensils in preparation for a meal.
(idiomatic) To make a future outcome possible.
- (Can we date this quote?), Thomas G. Segrich, The $32M Sales System for Design & Build Home Remodelers and Kitchen & Bath Professionals‎:
  The next step is to 'Set the Table' for the sale by stating your agenda. This is both a method of directing the course of the meeting, as well as a trial close
- 2008, B. A. Marbue Brown, The Clinton Economic Boom, page 107:
  In a very real sense, PC technology set the table for the prosperity of the nineties.

Synonyms

(arrange plates etc. for a meal): lay the table

Translations

arrange plates, dishes, etc. in preparation for a meal

Chinese:
Mandarin: please add this translation if you can

Finnish: kattaa pöytä
Spanish: poner la mesa

make a future outcome possible

Chinese:
Mandarin: please add this translation if you can

Finnish: pohjustaa (fi)
Spanish: preparar el camino

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