How to Master the Phrase “Under the Table” for the IELTS Exam

The phrase under the table is an idiomatic expression with multiple meanings that can enrich your vocabulary for the IELTS exam. Understanding idioms like this one can significantly enhance your performance, especially in the Writing and Speaking sections. This article will dissect the phrase, provide various synonymous and antonymous expressions, and illustrate their uses with examples.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:

  1. Secretly (/ˈsiː.krɪt.li/), adverb – done without others knowing.
  • He whispered secretly to his friend.
  2. Illegally (/ɪˈliː.ɡəl.i/), adverb – in a way that is forbidden by law.
  • They operated an underground network illegally.
  3. In secret (/ɪn ˈsiː.krɪt/), phrase – hidden from public view.
  • The deal was made in secret.
  4. Illicitly (/ɪˈlɪs.ɪt.li/), adverb – in a forbidden manner.
  • They procured those goods illicitly.

• Antonyms:

  1. Openly (/ˈəʊ.pən.li/), adverb – in a way that is visible and not secret.
  • She spoke her mind openly.
  2. Legally (/ˈliː.ɡəl.i/), adverb – in accordance with the law.
  • The business operates legally.
  3. Publicly (/ˈpʌb.lɪk.li/), adverb – in a manner meant to be seen by everyone.
  • They discussed the issue publicly.
  4. Legitimately (/lɪˈdʒɪt.ɪ.mɪt.li/), adverb – in a lawful or accepted way.
  • They acquired the property legitimately.

Understanding the Phrase “Under the Table”

The phrase under the table typically has two predominant meanings:

1. Used to describe secret or illicit activities, such as avoiding taxes or engaging in bribery.
2. Can also mean something done discreetly or unofficially, not necessarily illegal.

Common Uses and Pronunciation

• Under the table (/ˈʌn.dər ðə ˈteɪ.bəl/), phrase – secretly or illegally.

Example Sentences:

1. Bribery Context:
   • He was paid under the table to secure the contract.
2. Tax Evasion:
   • They earned extra money under the table to avoid paying taxes.
3. Discreet Actions:
   • They settled the dispute under the table to keep things quiet.

Analyzing the Popularity of “Under the Table” in IELTS

The phrase under the table can appear in various forms throughout the IELTS exam, particularly in the Writing and Speaking sections. Here are some common contexts:

Writing Section:

• Task 1: Could involve explaining informal economic activities or discrepancies in reported income.
• Task 2: Discussing ethical implications of illegal activities.

Example:

In addressing corruption, governments should focus not only on public policies but also on the subtle activities that occur under the table.

Speaking Section:

• Part 1 & 2: Personal experiences or opinions about discreet or illegal activities.
• Part 3: Broader discussions on morality or legality in society.

Example:

Have you ever heard of anyone being paid under the table in your country? How does it affect the economy?

Practical Examples and Exercises

Here are 10 sentences to practice:

1. Sentence Construction:

   • Working under the table for cash can result in severe penalties.

2. Essay Intro:

   • The prevalence of transactions done under the table undermines honest businesses.

3. Debate Position:

   • Some argue that small businesses are forced to pay wages under the table due to high taxes and rigid labor laws.

4. Morphological Analysis:

   • “Under the table” is an idiomatic prepositional phrase that requires context to understand its specific meaning.

5. Paraphrasing Task:

   • While many transactions are official, others occur under the table.

6. Comparison:

   • Unlike upfront payments, those done under the table often leave no paper trail.

7. Business Ethics Discussion:

   • Accepting payments under the table compromises the integrity of business practices.

8. Synonym Use:

   • She claimed overtime wages were paid secretly to avoid heightened scrutiny.

9. Illustrative Example:

   • During the interrogation, it was revealed that many deals had transpired under the table.

10. Cultural Reference:

    • In some countries, it is almost customary to handle certain transactions under the table.

Illicit Payment Example

Related Idioms and Phrases

1. “Water under the bridge”

• Definition: Past events that are no longer considered important.
• Example: Their disagreement is just water under the bridge now.

2. “Turn a blind eye”

• Definition: To ignore something that is known to be wrong.
• Example: Many authorities turn a blind eye to minor infractions.

3. “Behind closed doors”

• Definition: Done secretly or privately.
• Example: The negotiations happened behind closed doors.

4. “Sweep under the rug”

• Definition: To hide or ignore something.
• Example: They tried to sweep the scandal under the rug.

5. “Brush off”

• Definition: To dismiss without consideration.
• Example: She tried to brush off the accusations.

Conclusion

Understanding the idiom “under the table” can provide significant advantages in both comprehension and expression during the IELTS exam. Recognizing its synonyms, antonyms, and related phrases offers a richer linguistic perspective. By practicing sentences, engaging in contextual explorations, and utilizing related idioms, learners can master this expression and apply it effectively in their IELTS endeavors.