chúc ngon miệng
[t͡ɕʊwk͡p̚˧˦ ŋɔn˧˧ miəŋ˧˨ʔ]word by word
To say "enjoy your meal" in Vietnamese, use chúc ngon miệng.
This is a polite phrase used to wish someone a pleasant dining experience before they begin eating.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of chúc (to wish), ngon (delicious) and miệng (mouth).
How does it change in a sentence?
Unlike English, which often uses a subject and verb like "I hope you enjoy your meal", this Vietnamese phrase is a standalone imperative-style wish that does not require a subject.
Did you know?
- In many Vietnamese social settings, instead of saying chúc ngon miệng, it is more common to simply say 'Mời' followed by the recipient's relationship title to invite them to eat.
- The word miệng meaning 'mouth' is a linguistic relative of words for 'cheek' and 'jaw' in other Austroasiatic languages like Semai and Khmu.
- The word miệng for 'mouth' is related to the word miếng, which refers to a 'piece' or 'morsel' of food, connecting the organ to the act of eating.
Examples in context
- Chúc ngon miệng!Wishing you a delicious meal!
- Ăn no nhá!Eat until you're full!
- Chúc ngon miệng nhé!Enjoy your meal!
Example conversation
Minh and Chi are having lunch at a small cafe.
- MinhMón này trông ngon quá, chúc ngon miệng nhé Chi!This dish looks great, enjoy your meal, Chi!
- ChiCảm ơn anh, chúc anh ăn ngon miệng.Thanks, enjoy your meal too, Minh.
- MinhCảm ơn em.Thank you.
- ChiChúng ta cùng ăn thôi.Let's eat.
