Distinguishing Lunch from Luncheon

Lunch vs Luncheon

It is easy to get confused between the terms lunch and luncheon as they are often mistakenly used interchangeably. However, they have distinct meanings and are connected to the occasion on which they are used. Thus, it is essential to understand the context of each term to grasp the difference between lunch and luncheon, and use them correctly.

What is Lunch?

Lunch refers to a meal taken in the early afternoon, typically less formal than a supper or dinner. A lunch can be full or quick, with the latter often consumed at a nearby restaurant during a work break. Full lunches usually include more food items, such as side dishes and soups. In sports, the preposition ‘at’ is often used before the word lunch, as in ‘the score at lunch is 129 for 4.’

What is Luncheon?

Luncheon is sometimes used to describe lunch, especially when the meal is consumed more formally at a restaurant or another designated place. This term is typically used when a group of people have lunch together during events such as club or business meetings. Luncheon can also be used when having lunch with a client, although using the word lunch is not incorrect in this situation. Luncheon events should also occur in the early afternoon.

What is the difference between Lunch and Luncheon?

While lunch and luncheon are often used interchangeably because they both refer to a meal consumed during the afternoon, there are some differences between the two:

• Lunch is the term used to describe a midday meal, often lighter or less formal than an evening meal.
• Luncheon also refers to a midday meal but is a more formal term.
• Lunch can be used when having a meal with a friend or family member, while luncheon is more appropriate when dining with a client or business partner.
• Lunch is usually used in informal situations, whereas luncheon is associated with more formal events.
• Although the two words can be used interchangeably without causing much confusion, using one term over the other can indicate the meal’s importance to others.

Key Takeaways

• Lunch is a less formal meal taken in the early afternoon, while luncheon refers to a more formal midday meal, typically consumed during events or with clients.
• Lunch is used in informal situations, and luncheon is used in more formal situations.
• Both terms can be used interchangeably, but using one over the other can convey the meal’s importance to others.