たたき台(だい)

Etymology

Literally "hammering block" - a surface used for hammering or beating things into shape. The metaphor suggests something that will be "hammered" (critiqued and shaped) by discussion.

Usage

Commonly used in business meetings and collaborative work when presenting a preliminary idea that is expected to be modified through group input. Using たたき台(だい) signals humility and openness to feedback.
Describing something as a たたき台(だい) explicitly invites criticism and revision, making it a diplomatic way to present ideas in group settings.

Common patterns

• たたき台(だい)として (as a starting point)
• たたき台(だい)にする (to use as a basis)
• たたき台(だい)を作(つく)る (to create a draft)