めしmeshi
1.

A term referring to cooked rice or grains, commonly associated with staple meals in Japanese cuisine.

2.

A general expression for a meal, encompassing breakfast, lunch, or dinner, often used in informal contexts.

3.

An informal term that can convey a rough or casual connotation compared to more polite words for rice or meals, often used by men.

4.

A historical or old-fashioned word for food, implying a sense of sustenance or nourishment.

Example:

とにかくメシ・・・といきたいところだが、その前に用を足すことにした。

goはんhanごはん御飯gohan
1.

A staple food in Japanese cuisine, often served as a main dish or accompaniment to various meals, enjoyed for its texture and versatility.

2.

The cooked grain that serves as a foundation for many traditional Japanese meals, reflecting the culture's emphasis on rice cultivation and consumption.

3.

A commonly prepared dish that can be both plain or flavored, representing nourishment and comfort within Japanese households.

4.

A fundamental element in many Japanese dishes, symbolizing sustenance and often associated with communal eating experiences.

Example:

ご飯とパンどちらがいいですか。

ゆうはん夕飯yuuhanゆうめし夕飯yuumeshi
1.

A meal consumed in the evening, typically consisting of various dishes that may vary by culture and occasion.

2.

The primary meal enjoyed at the end of the day, often serving as a time for family or friends to gather.

3.

An informal term for the dinner meal, frequently used in casual conversation.

4.

The last meal of the day, usually taken after sunset, which often includes traditional or home-cooked foods.

Example:

私は昨日夕飯を作った。

ひるめし昼飯hirumeshiちゅうはん昼飯chuuhanひるはん昼飯hiruhanひるhiruめしmeshi
1.

A meal typically consumed around midday, commonly referred to as lunch, that serves as a break from daily activities.

2.

A specific meal held during the day, often enjoyed between breakfast and dinner, that is associated with socialization and relaxation.

3.

The main meal eaten around noon, which can vary in significance and style based on cultural practices and personal preferences.

Example:

昼飯でもいっしょにどうですか。

ばんめし晩飯banmeshi
1.

A meal typically consumed in the evening, often a communal gathering for family or friends, serving as the main meal of the day.

2.

The last substantial meal of the day, usually enjoyed after work or school, often characterized by a variety of dishes.

3.

The evening meal that is frequently seen as a time to unwind and socialize, often associated with specific cultural or familial traditions.

4.

The time of day when people come together to share food and conversation, marking the end of the day's activities.

Example:

そんなの忘れてちょっくら晩飯でも食いにこいや。