01
das Mittagessen
lunch
The meal eaten in the middle of the day, usually between 12 and 2 p.m.
example
Heute gibt es zum Mittagessen Nudeln mit Tomatensoße.
Today we're having pasta with tomato sauce for lunch.
das Mittagessen
lunch
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is clearly made up of 'der Mittag' (midday/noon) and 'das Essen' (food/meal). The 's' in between is a linking sound that connects the two words. Literally, it therefore means 'das Essen am Mittag' (the meal at midday).
EXAMPLE
Das Mittagessen ist heute leider ausgefallen.
Unfortunately, lunch was canceled today.
The preposition 'zum'
To express purpose or occasion, the preposition 'zum' (zu dem) is almost always used. You go 'zum Mittagessen' (to lunch) or invite someone 'zum Mittagessen' (to lunch).
EXAMPLE
Treffen wir uns um 13 Uhr zum Mittagessen in der Kantine?
Shall we meet at 1 p.m. for lunch in the cafeteria?
Typical verbs
Common verbs used in connection with 'Mittagessen' (lunch) are: 'kochen' (to cook), 'zubereiten' (to prepare), 'essen' (to eat), or 'haben' (to have). People also often ask: 'Was gibt es zum Mittagessen?' (What's for lunch?).
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen noch das Mittagessen für morgen vorbereiten.
We still have to prepare lunch for tomorrow.
Compare with
Mittagessen vs Essen
food / meal / eating
'das Essen' and 'das Mittagessen' can both refer to a meal. However, 'das Essen' is more general: it can mean the food itself or any meal. 'das Mittagessen' is more specific and means the meal in the middle of the day. The words can be confused because lunch is, of course, also food. If the time of day is important, 'Mittagessen' is more precise. If you are talking generally about food or a meal, 'Essen' sounds more natural.
Mittagessen
Zu Hause bereitet Luisa das Mittagessen für die Familie vor.
At home, Luisa prepares lunch for the family.
Essen
Das Essen ist heute einfach, aber sehr lecker.
The food today is simple but very tasty.
In real life
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