Pronounced "TOOK-us
OY-f'n tish." Many variant spellings.
Literally "ass on the
table," it's a Yiddish phrase meaning a serious atmosphere for talk or negotiation. Closest US-English equivalents are probably "No BS" or "(Let's get down to) brass tacks." Often used in a tone of exasperation. Generally recommended for use within members of the same sex.
"
Elliot, come into the dining room. We need to make travel plans NOW or they won't get done."
"But Uncle Bernie, the
game starts in half an hour."
"Plenty of time if you
stop fooling around. Cmon: tuchus oyfn tish."