Lay/set the table

[natalia.kyrch]

Hello!

Could someone explain if I can use the phrase 'lay/set the table' when I talk about having food on a picnic blanket outdoors (no actual table in this context)?
Thank you very much.

 

[jutfrank]

A blanket isn't a table, so no.

 

[natalia.kyrch]

A blanket isn't a table, so no

A blanket isn't a table, so no.

What can I use with tea and sandwiches on the blanket then?

Is it "serve tea and sandwiches on the blanket"?

 

[emsr2d2]

That's not very natural. We tend to think of "serving" food as putting it in front of customers (at a restaurant/cafe) or in front of other people who are eating with you, normally at a table.

I poured the tea and put the plates of sandwiches out on the picnic blanket.

 

[jutfrank]

You could use 'lay out'.

Lay everything out on the blanket.