a heavy meal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a heavy meal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a meal that is large in portion or rich in ingredients, often leading to a feeling of fullness or heaviness afterward. Example: "After enjoying a heavy meal, I felt too tired to go for a walk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It should not be a heavy meal, consisting of over 500 to 700 calories".

The Guardian - Opinion

Cheesecake and rice pudding made heavy endings to a heavy meal.

The New York Times

When students return home they are given another lunch, generally a heavy meal of rice and lamb.

The New York Times

Many people advise you to eat a heavy meal, with lots of protein and fats, before or while drinking.

The New Yorker

A HEAVY meal is the last thing diners want on limp, humid days when the temperature is sizzling.

The New York Times

It is smooth with a fruity, floral aroma, and would be highly enjoyable after a heavy meal.

The New York Times

"It takes maybe three days, but you don't need to eat a heavy meal like that so often anyway".

The Guardian

My boyfriend sweats on only one side of his head whenever he eats spicy food or a heavy meal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Heartburn usually occurs when a person is stressed out, lays down after a heavy meal, eats especially fatty or greasy foods, or eats too much too quickly.

Columbia University

Is it worse after you eat a heavy meal or eat certain food, such as high-fat foods or dairy products?

Harvard University

I've suspected that those who smoke them do so as an excuse to mask that they are often unable to stand up after a heavy meal.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the potential impact of eating, be specific about the consequences, such as feeling sluggish, experiencing heartburn, or having difficulty sleeping after eating "a heavy meal".

Common error

Avoid simply stating a meal is "a heavy meal" without providing context. Instead, describe the specific components or portion sizes that contribute to its heaviness to give the reader a clearer picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a heavy meal" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the meal's characteristics related to size and content. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is common and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

22%

Science

19%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a heavy meal" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a substantial and filling meal. As Ludwig AI suggests, it frequently appears in News & Media, Academic, and Scientific contexts. When using the phrase, consider being specific about why the meal is "heavy", focusing on its components or potential effects on health and well-being. While the phrase is appropriate for most registers, context is key. Alternatives like "a substantial meal" or "a filling meal" can offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantial meal

Emphasizes the satisfying and filling nature of the meal.

a heavy repast

Similar in meaning, uses a more formal term for 'meal'.

a large portion

Focuses on the quantity of food served.

a weighty meal

Similar in meaning to "a heavy meal" and suggests the meal might be difficult to digest.

an abundant meal

Focuses on the plentiful quantity of the food.

a filling repast

A more formal way to describe a meal that satisfies hunger.

a rich feast

Highlights the luxurious and indulgent aspects of the meal.

a hearty dinner

Specifically refers to a large and satisfying evening meal.

a copious spread

Suggests a wide variety and abundance of food.

a belly-busting meal

An informal expression indicating an extremely filling meal.

FAQs

What does "a heavy meal" mean?

The phrase "a heavy meal" refers to a large and substantial meal, often rich in fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, which can lead to a feeling of fullness or sluggishness.

What are some synonyms for "a heavy meal"?

Some synonyms for "a heavy meal" include "a substantial meal", "a filling meal", or "a large portion".

When is it best to avoid eating "a heavy meal"?

It's generally advisable to avoid eating "a heavy meal" before bedtime, before exercising, or when you need to remain alert and focused.

What are the potential effects of eating "a heavy meal"?

Eating "a heavy meal" can lead to feelings of fullness, bloating, heartburn, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. In some cases, it may also trigger heart attacks in susceptible individuals.