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evening meal

/ˈiːvnɪŋ miːl/
noun phrase★Beginner
formal

The main meal eaten in the evening, typically the largest and most substantial meal of the day in many cultures.

We usually have a light dinner, but tonight's evening meal is a special feast.

We typically eat a small dinner, but tonight's evening meal is a big celebration.

💡

In some cultures, this may refer to 'dinner,' while in others, it might be 'supper.'

Collocations

have an evening mealto eat dinner in the eveningprepare the evening mealto cook or arrange dinner

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

evening meal timephrase
the time when the evening meal is typically eaten

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Variations

In some cultures, the evening meal is the largest meal of the day, while in others, it may be lighter.

⚡Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

Use 'evening meal' in formal contexts; 'dinner' or 'supper' are more common in casual speech.

📖Word Origin

Combination of 'evening' (late part of the day) and 'meal' (food eaten at a specific time).

📝Usage Notes

The term is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In some regions, 'dinner' and 'supper' may have distinct meanings.

Word Breakdown

evening
the time of day after sunset
root
+
meal
a portion of food eaten at one time
root
English Dictionary

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