Lunch, a midday meal, is a staple in many cultures worldwide. While its contents and timing may vary, the concept of a midday break for sustenance is universal. In Bengali, lunch is not just a meal; it’s a significant part of the daily routine and carries cultural connotations. This blog post will explore the Bengali translation of “lunch,” delve into its cultural significance, and offer examples, synonyms, and phrases related to this midday meal.
Lunch Meaning in Bengali
The most common Bengali word for “lunch” is “দুপুরের খাবার” (dupurer khabar). This term directly translates to “midday meal” and encompasses any food consumed during the middle of the day.
Lunch অর্থ কী?
“Lunch” শব্দটি ইংরেজি থেকে এসেছে, যা মধ্যাহ্নভোজনকে বোঝায়। বাংলায়, এর সরাসরি অনুবাদ হল “দুপুরের খাবার”। এটি দুপুরের সময়ে গৃহীত প্রধান খাবারকে নির্দেশ করে, যা সাধারণত ভাত, ডাল, মাছ/মাংস, শাক-সবজি, এবং অন্যান্য উপাদান দিয়ে তৈরি হয়।
Examples
- আমি দুপুরের খাবারের জন্য ভাত, ডাল, মাছ, এবং শাক খেয়েছি। (Ami dupurer khabarer jonno bhat, dal, mach, ebong shak kheyechhi.) – I had rice, lentils, fish, and vegetables for lunch.
- তুমি দুপুরের খাবারে কী খাবে? (Tumi dupurer khabare ki khabe?) – What will you have for lunch?
- আজ দুপুরের খাবার একটু দেরি হয়ে যাবে। (Aaj dupurer khabar ektu deri hoye jabe.) – Lunch will be a little late today.
Synonyms
- মধ্যাহ্নভোজ (moddhahno bhoj): A more formal or literary term for lunch
- দুপুরের ভাত (dupurer bhat): Literally “midday rice,” but often used to refer to lunch in general
Antonyms
There’s no direct antonym for “lunch” in Bengali, as it refers to a specific meal. However, one could contrast it with other meals like “ব্রেকফাস্ট” (breakfast) or “রাতের খাবার” (dinner).
Phrases and Idioms
- দুপুরের খাবারের বিরতি (dupurer khabarer biroti): Lunch break
- দুপুরের খাবারের প্যাকেট (dupurer khabarer packet): Lunch box or packed lunch
Uses
- Daily Routine: To refer to the midday meal in one’s daily schedule.
- Social Gatherings: To invite someone for lunch or discuss lunch plans.
- Restaurants and Menus: To identify lunch specials or offerings.
- Health and Nutrition: To discuss the importance of a balanced lunch for well-being.
Conclusion
Understanding the meaning of “lunch” (দুপুরের খাবার) in Bengali goes beyond just knowing the translation. It’s about appreciating the cultural significance of this meal and its role in the daily rhythm of life. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional Bengali lunch or simply grabbing a quick bite, knowing the Bengali terminology enhances your connection to the language and culture.