In casual dating contexts, it can be used as a "soft" version of a formal dinner invitation.
Many experts now counter this with, "If you'll pay my usual fee, I'll happily buy you lunch," to signal their time has specific market value. 2. Networking & Relationship Building buy you lunch meaning
It’s often seen as less formal and less intimidating than a night out, though it can still signal romantic intent. 4. Idiomatic Cousins In casual dating contexts, it can be used
: To outcompete or take an advantage away from a rival. In casual dating contexts
Be careful not to confuse "buying lunch" with these similar-sounding idioms: