Translation guide
The legume lentil is most commonly referred to as レンズ豆 in Japanese. The word レンズマメ is also used but less common. In culinary contexts, especially for Indian dishes, ダル may be used to refer to lentil-based dishes or split lentils.
The standard Japanese word for lentil. Literally 'lens bean', referring to the lens-like shape.
Lentils are often used in soup.
Alternative katakana spelling, less common than レンズ豆.
Please buy some lentils.
Rarely used native Japanese name, literally 'flat bean'. Mostly found in botanical contexts.
The lentil is a plant of the legume family.
Referring to lentil-based dishes or split lentils, especially in the context of Indian cooking.
Use レンズ豆 when talking about the legume itself, such as in recipes or grocery shopping. Use ダル when referring to Indian-style lentil dishes or in the context of Indian cuisine.
I ordered dal at the Indian restaurant.