plan de table
/plɑ̃ də tabl/
The English phrase "seating chart" is translated into French as plan de table.
The term plan de table is used to refer to both the physical diagram itself and the actual arrangement of guests at a formal dinner or a wedding. In more formal contexts, such as official events or conferences, the phrase Disposition des places is used to discuss the arrangement of seats.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase plan de table literally means "table plan", composed of plan (plan/map), de (of) and table (table).
How does it change in a sentence?
To form the plural plans de table (seating charts), add an s to the word plan.
Did you know?
- While plan de table refers to the layout, French dining etiquette traditionally dictates that the most honored guests are seated at the 'center' of the table, rather than just at the head.
- The French word table is a doublet of tôle, which refers to sheet metal, because both come from the Latin tabula.
- A plan de table can cause significant social stress at French weddings, as guest placement is often viewed as a public statement of social hierarchy.
Examples in context
- Nous devons discuter de la disposition des places pour la conférence.We must discuss the seating arrangement for the conference.
- Oui, le plan de salle devrait être bien conçu pour assurer le confort des participants.Yes, the floor plan/seating chart should be well designed to ensure the comfort of the participants.
- Vérifiez le plan de table pour trouver votre numéro de table.Check the seating chart to find your table number.
- Où est le plan de table ?Where is the seating chart?
- Il faut vérifier le plan de table.We must check the seating chart.
Example conversation
At a wedding reception, two guests are looking for their places.
- ChloéEst-ce que tu as vu le plan de table ?Have you seen the seating chart?
- GabrielNon, je ne le trouve pas.No, I can't find it.
- ChloéRegarde, il est près de la porte.Look, it is near the door.
- GabrielAh oui, merci Chloé.Ah yes, thanks Chloé.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry plan de table, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, plan, table, CC BY-SA 4.0.
