While English is a rich language, there are some words from other languages that dont have a direct translation. These words often describe special feelings, situations, or ideas that are deeply connected to their cultures. For example, just as some languages have specific words for different types of weather, other languages have unique words for particular moments or emotions that are hard to explain in English. Here are some interesting examples of untranslatable words that show us the different ways people see the world.
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?Language: Japanese?
?Origin: Zen Buddhist philosophy?
Meaning: Wabi-sabi is a way of seeing beauty in things that are imperfect and temporary. It appreciates the natural cycle of growth and decay. For example, a weathered wooden bench or a chipped ceramic bowl are beautiful because they show signs of age and use.
Language: Portuguese?
Origin: From Latin "solitas" meaning solitude?
Meaning: Saudade is a deep feeling of missing someone or something you love but that is not present. It is a mix of sadness and happiness, often brought on by memories.
Language: German?
Origin: From "Schaden" (damage/harm) and "Freude" (joy)?
Meaning: Schadenfreude is the feeling of pleasure or satisfaction when you see someone else experience trouble or suffering. It is a complex emotion that shows the mix of empathy and rivalry.
Language: Danish?
Origin: From Old Norse "hugga" meaning to comfort or console?
Meaning: Hygge is a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being from enjoying simple things in life. It is often associated with candlelit evenings, warm blankets, and spending time with loved ones.
Language: Yaghan (Indigenous language of Tierra del Fuego)?
Origin: Yaghan people?
Meaning: This word describes the look shared by two people who both want to start something but are both too shy or hesitant to do so. It is a moment of mutual understanding and hesitation.
Language: Russian?
Origin: From Old Russian?
Meaning: Toska is a word that describes a deep, spiritual sadness or longing. It can range from a vague restlessness to an intense, existential yearning. It is a complex emotion that can include nostalgia and a sense of the ineffable.
Language: Spanish?
Origin: From "sobre" (over) and "mesa" (table)?
Meaning: Sobremesa is the time spent relaxing and talking after a meal, enjoying the company of others. It is a cherished tradition in many Spanish-speaking countries.
Language: Swedish?
Origin: From "g?k" (cuckoo) and "otta" (early morning)?
Meaning: G?kotta is the act of waking up early in the morning to go outside and listen to the first birds singing. It is a celebration of nature and the peace of early morning.
Language: Japanese?
Origin: From "ko" (tree), "moreru" (to leak through), and "bi" (light)?
Meaning: Komorebi describes the sunlight that filters through the leaves of trees, creating a beautiful play of light and shadow. It captures a peaceful and almost magical moment in nature.
Language: Greek
Origin: From Turkish "merak" (labor of love)?
Meaning: Meraki is the soul, creativity, or love you put into something; the essence of yourself that you put into your work. It is often used to describe the passion and dedication you pour into a task.
Interestingly, just as English speakers sometimes struggle to find the right word for certain feelings or situations, speakers of other languages also face similar challenges. When a language lacks a specific word for a new concept or item, it often borrows from another language. English, being a dominant global language, is frequently the source of these borrowed words.
For example, Japanese has adopted many English words. Here are a few examples:
Origin: English "computer"?
Meaning: This word is used in Japanese to refer to a computer. While Japanese has its own words for many things, the rapid advancement of technology brought with it new concepts that didn't have existing Japanese terms.
Origin:?English "pepperoni"?
Meaning: This word is used in Japanese to mean pepperoni, a type of spicy salami often used as a pizza topping. The concept of pepperoni was introduced from Western cuisine and the English term was adapted to fit the Japanese phonetic system.
Origin: English "ice cream"?
Meaning: This word is used in Japanese to refer to ice cream. The concept of ice cream was introduced to Japan and the English term was adapted to fit the Japanese phonetic system.
Origin: English "elevator"?
Meaning: This word is used in Japanese to refer to an elevator. As modern buildings with elevators became more common in Japan, the English term was borrowed.
These borrowed words are often adapted to fit the phonetic and grammatical systems of the borrowing language. This process of borrowing and adapting words shows how languages evolve and influence each other, enriching their vocabularies and enabling speakers to communicate new ideas.
These words show us that language is not just a way to communicate but also a reflection of the unique ways different cultures understand and interact with the world. While they may not have direct translations in English, their meanings resonate with universal human emotions and experiences. So next time you experience a moment that feels hard to describe, remember that somewhere in the world, there might be a perfect word for it.
Explore our blog posts 'Translating sayings into English C with some funny results' and 'English tongue twisters to test your English skills'.
At app Languages, 2024 has been a landmark year full of innovation, connection, and impactful resources for businesses worldwide. Weve worked on so many things with the aim to empower global workforces and help organizations unlock the potential of language skills to drive business success. Here's how we made a difference this year.
As the year comes to a close, its time to reflect on the highlights, achievements and innovations that shaped education in 2024. For educators everywhere, this has been a year of growth, adaptation and pushing boundaries to empower both students and teachers. Whether youve been focused on refining your teaching practices or adopting new educational technologies, theres plenty to celebrate and learn from this year.
Heres a look back at some of the major app Languages educator highlights in 2024.
The end of the school year can be bittersweet. Students are excited for the holidays, but teachers have the tricky task of keeping their attention as focus starts to fade. The upside? Its the perfect chance to make this time fun, memorable and engaging with creative classroom ideas that really stick. Here's a list of end-of-year school activities to ensure your students stay motivated all the way to the final bell.
Longer projects are perfect for the end of the year because they encourage deeper engagement. Here are a few ideas to try out.
With the festive season approaching, its the perfect excuse to blend learning with holiday cheer.
Interactive games are an easy way to maintain focus and excitement.
Encourage collaboration with team tasks that bring students together.
Dont hesitate to think outside the box with these unique ideas:
Every great year deserves a great finish. Host a lesson that brings your students closer together.
The end of the school year doesnt have to signal the end of learning. With a bit of creativity, teachers can make the last weeks of school productive and enjoyable. From fun classroom activities to meaningful year-end projects for students, these ideas will set the stage for a memorable finish.
