What insight does the comparison of déjeuner in parts of France and Switzerland provide about meal terminology?

Answer

How the same root meaning can migrate across the meal sequence in different languages

The linguistic example involving the term *déjeuner* illustrates the fluid nature of meal nomenclature across different geographical and linguistic contexts. In its etymological root, *déjeuner* shares the core concept with 'breakfast'—meaning 'breaking the fast.' However, in some regions of France, this term is used to denote the midday meal (lunch). Simultaneously, in Switzerland, the term *déjeuner* might be used for the lunch period as well, demonstrating how a term built on the sequence of breaking a fast can shift its association over time to occupy a specific position (like the second meal) within the overall daily meal sequence. This showcases that while the etymological meaning might persist, its conventional application shifts based on local tradition.

What insight does the comparison of *déjeuner* in parts of France and Switzerland provide about meal terminology?

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