Lunch break is not just a time to eat; it’s a cherished pause in the hustle of the workday, a moment to recharge, and sometimes, a topic of casual workplace conversation. Whether you’re discussing plans, inviting colleagues, or simply enjoying your meal, knowing the right phrases can make your lunch break interactions smoother and more enjoyable. Here are 20 handy phrases related to lunch breaks, each with a succinct meaning and an example to help you use them effectively in everyday conversations.
Phrases about Lunch Break
1. Grab a bite
Meaning: Go eat something, usually quickly.
Example: Let’s grab a bite; I’m starving!
2. Out to lunch
Meaning: Not present, unavailable, sometimes not paying attention.
Example: He’s out to lunch; can I take a message?
3. Lunch is on me
Meaning: I will pay for lunch.
Example: Thanks for your help this morning—lunch is on me today.
4. Power lunch
Meaning: A working lunch, often to discuss business matters.
Example: We scheduled a power lunch to finalize the deal.
5. Brown bag it
Meaning: Bring a packed lunch from home.
Example: I’m saving money, so I’ll brown bag it this week.
6. Lunch hour
Meaning: The usual hour break for lunch.
Example: Can we meet during your lunch hour tomorrow?
7. Take a lunch break
Meaning: Go on your scheduled break to eat lunch.
Example: You look stressed, take a lunch break.
8. What’s for lunch?
Meaning: Asking about the lunch menu or plans.
Example: What’s for lunch? I forgot to pack mine.
9. Skip lunch
Meaning: Not have lunch.
Example: I have to skip lunch to finish this report.
10. Let’s do lunch
Meaning: Suggesting to meet for lunch.
Example: Let’s do lunch and catch up next week.
11. Lunch crowd
Meaning: The group of people who eat lunch at the same time.
Example: The café is packed with the lunch crowd.
12. Make it a quick lunch
Meaning: Have a brief lunch.
Example: I have a meeting soon, let’s make it a quick lunch.
13. Lunch special
Meaning: A meal offered at a reduced price usually during lunchtime.
Example: The lunch special today is spaghetti.
14. Lunch meeting
Meaning: A meeting held during lunch.
Example: We need to have a lunch meeting to discuss the project.
15. Lunch date
Meaning: A social appointment for lunch.
Example: I have a lunch date with an old friend.
16. Extend lunch
Meaning: Take a longer lunch break than usual.
Example: Can we extend lunch? I’m not done eating.
17. Cut lunch short
Meaning: End lunch earlier than planned.
Example: Sorry, I have to cut lunch short, something came up.
18. Working through lunch
Meaning: Continue to work during the lunch break.
Example: We’re working through lunch to meet the deadline.
19. Pack your lunch
Meaning: Prepare and bring your lunch from home.
Example: I packed my lunch today—homemade salad!
20. Business lunch
Meaning: A lunch focused on business discussions.
Example: We have a business lunch with the clients tomorrow.
