What is the Difference Between Dinner and Supper?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The terms "dinner" and "supper" are often used interchangeably to refer to the main meal of the day, particularly when it is eaten at home or in the evening. However, there are some differences between the two terms:
- Dinner: This term is typically used for a more formal meal or the main meal of the day. It can refer to the largest meal of the day, regardless of the time it is consumed.
- Supper: Supper is often associated with an informal meal eaten at home, usually in the evening. In some dialects and especially in British English, supper can also refer to a light meal or snack that is eaten late in the evening.
Historically, "dinner" was the midday meal, while "supper" was the evening meal. However, with the rise of industrialization, people's daily schedules changed, and the main meal of the day was often pushed to the evening hours. This has led to the terms "dinner" and "supper" being used more interchangeably, although some regional and cultural differences persist.
In the United States, the terms "dinner" and "supper" can be used interchangeably, but "dinner" is typically more common in urban areas. In the South and Midwest, the term "supper" is more commonly used, possibly due to these regions having a greater reliance on agriculture. In British English, "dinner" and "supper" can have different connotations, with "dinner" being more formal and "supper" being more informal.
Comparative Table: Dinner vs Supper
The difference between "dinner" and "supper" primarily depends on the region, generation, and personal preference. Here is a table summarizing the differences:
| Term | Meaning | Historical Context | Usage Today |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner | The main meal of the day, usually eaten in the early evening or at midday. | In the past, it was a more substantial meal eaten at mid-day, while supper was a lighter meal eaten in the evening. | Dinner is the standard term for the main meal, especially in the evening. It can also refer to a formal meal in honor of a special occasion, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. |
| Supper | A lighter meal served in the evening. | In the past, it was a lighter meal compared to dinner, often consisting of soup. | Supper is still used in some regions, particularly in the South, to refer to the evening meal. It is often considered more informal and social than dinner. |
As with any rule, there are exceptions. In some households, "Sunday supper" remains a cherished tradition that brings families and friends together to share a hearty meal, regardless of the time of day. In some regions, the evening meal is referred to as "supper" and is eaten in the kitchen, while "dinner" is considered more formal and is used on special occasions. The distinction between the two terms may be blurred, and their usage may vary depending on personal preference and regional customs.
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