What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally means 'good enjoyment' or 'good profit', where provecho refers to the benefit or enjoyment derived from the meal.
Which one should you use?
While buen provecho is the standard phrase, other forms exist depending on the situation. Que tenga un buen almuerzo is a formal way to say 'Have a good lunch', while Que disfrutes del almuerzo is an informal way to say the same. You may also hear the colloquial ¡Que aproveche!
How does it change in a sentence?
The alternative phrase que aproveche uses the subjunctive mood to express a wish for the meal to be enjoyed.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌbwem pɾoˈbetʃo/
When do people say it?
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, it is common etiquette to say this to people who are currently eating or about to eat, even if you are not eating with them. The standard response when someone says buen provecho to you is gracias.
Did you know?
- In some regions, saying buen provecho immediately before starting a meal is seen as a way to bless the food's nutritional value for the body.
- The word provecho shares a common ancestor with the English word 'profit', which is why the phrase can be translated as 'good profit'.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, it is considered impolite to leave a table without saying buen provecho to those who are still eating.
Examples in context
- Que tenga un buen almuerzo, señor/SeñoraHave a good lunch, sir/madam
- Disfrute su almuerzoEnjoy your lunch
- Buen provecho a todosEnjoy your meal, everyone
- Buen provecho.Enjoy your meal.
- Muchas gracias, buen provecho.Thank you very much, enjoy your meal.
- ¡Buen provecho a todos!Enjoy your meal, everyone!
Example conversation
Daniel and María are leaving the office for their lunch break.
- DanielNos vemos en una hora, María.See you in an hour, María.
- MaríaEstá bien, Daniel. ¡Buen provecho!Okay, Daniel. Enjoy your meal!
- DanielGracias, igualmente para ti.Thanks, same to you.
- MaríaAdiós.Goodbye.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry buen provecho, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries buen, provecho, CC BY-SA 4.0.
