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Debate: Before eating

Forum guest Shai Tibber wanted to know what English people said before they ate

07 Aug
2006

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is there an english word for bonappetit, or any english expression in which hosts wish diners to enjoy their meal? (apart from - "tuck in")

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bonappetit, in english

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is there an english word for bonappetit, or any english expression in which hosts wish diners to enjoy their meal? (apart from - "tuck in")

Re: bonappetit, in english

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As a French speaking to English speaking people, I would say : "Have a good meal" or "Enjoy your meal", but I found many of them understand "Bon appétit!".

Re: bonappetit, in english

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My grandmother used to say before every meal-
'Past the teeth, round the gums,
look out belly, here it comes.'
Somehow it lacks the considerable charm of 'bon appetit'.
So much for Shakespeare and his influence on the English language......

Re: bonappetit, in english

Archive Comments

The British are very guarded about eating and food. It almost falls into the category of sex and other bodily functions. Not to be mentioned.
If a person were to visit, whilst a British family were having a meal, it would be embarrassing. In France ,it is acceptable and the person would be invited to partake.
For that reason, I suppose, we have no equivalent of `bon appetit`

BTW ,the French have a bon for every occassion.

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Monday, 07th August 2006
Monday, 07th August 2006

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