Meetings · Plain-English guide
What does “Parking lot” mean?
In a meeting, a list of topics set aside to discuss later.
“Do remember where you parked the question.” — Arthur
What it means in practice
Here this means a list of subjects to discuss later, not a place to leave your car. It can help a meeting stay focused, but a subject can disappear if nobody arranges the follow-up.
An example and a clearer version
The original wording
Put that in the parking lot.
In plain English
Let us record that topic and discuss it after the budget decision.
What to say instead
topics to discuss later.
How to make the next step clear
Before the meeting ends, decide whether each deferred subject needs a separate conversation, a written answer or a place on the next agenda. Give someone responsibility for taking it forward.
Wording you can adapt
We will discuss the supplier issue separately. Sam will arrange a call for next week.
The wording around a phrase matters. Keep the names, dates, amounts and conditions from the original when you rewrite it.
Try “Parking lot” with Arthur →