Learning how to say “lunch” in Japanese is not only useful when you visit Japan or interact with Japanese speakers, but it also provides insight into the language and culture. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “lunch” in Japanese, as well as some essential tips and examples to help you confidently use this term.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Lunch in Japanese
When it comes to formal expressions, there are a few ways to say “lunch” in Japanese. The most commonly used phrase is “hiru gohan” (昼ごはん), where “hiru” means “midday” or “noon” and “gohan” refers to “meal” or “cooked rice.” Let’s break down this phrase and look at an example:
昼ごはんを食べましょう。
(Hiru gohan wo tabemashou.)
Let’s have lunch.
Note that in formal situations, it is common to include the term “wo tabemashou” at the end of the sentence, which means “let’s eat.”
Informal Ways to Say Lunch in Japanese
Japanese language also has informal expressions for saying “lunch.” One commonly used phrase is “hiru meshi” (昼めし), where “meshi” is a casual term for “meal.” Let’s see this phrase in action:
今日の昼めしは何にする？
(Kyō no hiru meshi wa nani ni suru?)
What are you having for lunch today?
As shown in the example, when using informal expressions, you can drop the “wo tabemashou” part and end the sentence with a question instead.
Different Regional Variations
While the formal and informal ways mentioned above are widely understood across Japan, it’s worth noting that different regions may have their unique variations. Let’s look at a couple of examples:
Kansai Dialect
In the Kansai region, which includes cities such as Osaka and Kyoto, the term “lunch” is commonly referred to as “hirumeshi” (昼めし) or “ohiru” (お昼). Here’s an example:
今日のお昼はなんにする？
(Kyō no ohiru wa nan ni suru?)
What are you having for lunch today?
Tokyo Dialect
In the Tokyo dialect, the term “lunch” is often abbreviated to “lanchi” (ランチ) due to Western influence. It is sometimes accompanied by the Japanese verb “taberu” (食べる) meaning “to eat.” Take a look at the example below:
今日は何をランチに食べる？
(Kyō wa nani wo ranchi ni taberu?)
What are you eating for lunch today?
These regional variations add flavor to the language and showcase the diversity within Japan.
Tips for Using Lunch in Japanese
1. Context Matters
Understanding the appropriate usage of these phrases depends on the context. While “hiru gohan” and “hiru meshi” are often used interchangeably, “hiru gohan” carries a slightly more formal tone, fitting better in business or formal settings.
2. Time Sensitivity
Japanese culture places importance on the time of meals. “Hiru gohan” or “hiru meshi” is typically used between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm, which is considered the standard lunchtime in Japan.
3. Consider Your Relationship
When communicating in Japanese, it’s essential to consider the level of formality based on the relationship with the person you are speaking to. Always be mindful of using the appropriate language and tone.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned how to say “lunch” in Japanese. Remember, “hiru gohan” is the more formal phrase, while “hiru meshi” is used in casual situations. Additionally, different regional variations and dialects such as “hirumeshi” in Kansai and “lanchi” in Tokyo provide a glimpse into the rich cultural diversity of Japan.
By using these phrases in the appropriate context and being aware of cultural nuances, you’ll be able to communicate effectively and showcase your respect for the Japanese language and culture.
