We have heard, read and used the expression “to have many tables” on countless occasions, but surely we have not reflected on the meaning and origin of the phrase.
People who are not fluent in Spanish or who understand the language based on the exact meaning of the words might try to look up the meaning of “tener muchas tablas” literally. However, the expression has nothing to do with a huge amount of wood, with which a carpenter could unleash his creativity. Nor does it refer to a surfer who collects boards. Nothing that.
The phrase is an idiom, an expression whose meaning cannot be deduced from the meaning of the words that form it and which, however, is generally used in the proper context. When someone hears or reads an idiom, he usually understands what is meant.
According to the definition of the dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE), “having (many) tables” means having “experience and fluency in public performances or in the development of an activity”. Here are a few examples:
It is understood that the origin of the locution is in the world of performing arts. In theater slang, the stage is called tables, since the floor where the performance takes place is made up of a wooden plank platform. In this way, an experienced artist is one who has stepped on the stage many times, the tables.
Although the expression began to be used to highlight skilled actors, with the passage of time it was extended to indicate people with poise, skill or knowledge of being in any trade or activity.
According to the criteria of The Trust Project
