Have you ever come across any untranslatable words in another language that loses its essence when converted to English or any other language?
Maybe it was a word that describes a feeling or experience that you didn’t have a word for in your own language. Or maybe it was a word that had a completely different meaning than any word in your language.
There are many words and phrases in other languages that simply don’t have an equivalent in English. These untranslatable words can offer us a new way of thinking about the world, and they can help us to better understand other cultures.
Let us explore some unique words in different languages with meaning from across the globe.
30 Untranslatable Words from around the world
Here are some really unique and untranslatable words from other languages that are difficult to translate into English –
1. Saudade (Portuguese)
Saudade is a Portuguese word that describes a deep emotional state of nostalgia or longing for something that is absent or lost. It embodies a sense of longing and melancholy that is difficult to put into words.
2. Schadenfreude (German)
Schadenfreude is a German word that describes the pleasure one takes in the misfortune of others. Although it is a negative emotion, it is still a common feeling that people experience.
3. Iktsuarpok (Inuit)
Iktsuarpok is an Inuit word that describes the feeling of anticipation and excitement that leads one to keep looking outside to see if someone is coming.
Related: 32 Interesting Expressions You Should Have in Your Vocabulary
4. Mamihlapinatapai (Yaghan)
Mamihlapinatapai is a word from the Yaghan language of Tierra del Fuego. It describes a wordless, meaningful look shared between two people who want the other to initiate something they both desire but neither wants to start.
5. Kintsugi (Japanese)
Kintsugi is a Japanese word that describes the art of repairing broken pottery with gold, silver, or platinum. It represents the idea that something can be made more beautiful and valuable by acknowledging and embracing its flaws and imperfections.
6. L’esprit de l’escalier (French)
L’esprit de l’escalier is a French phrase that describes the feeling of thinking of the perfect thing to say after the moment has passed. It is often described as “staircase wit.”
7. Wabi-sabi (Japanese)
Wabi-sabi is a Japanese word that describes the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and incompleteness. It is often associated with the traditional Japanese aesthetic of simplicity and naturalness.
8. Tingo (Pascuense)
Tingo is one of the most unique untranslatable phrases from the Pascuense language of Easter Island. It describes the act of gradually borrowing items from a neighbor’s house until there is nothing left.
9. Tartle (Scottish)
Tartle is a Scottish word that describes the moment of hesitation when introducing someone whose name you can’t remember.
10. Jayus (Indonesian)
Jayus is an Indonesian word that describes a joke so poorly told and unfunny that one cannot help but laugh.
11. Waldeinsamkeit (German)
Waldeinsamkeit is a German word that describes the feeling of being alone in the woods and feeling a sense of peace and tranquility.
12. Woonerf (Dutch)
Woonerf is a Dutch word that describes a residential street designed for shared use by pedestrians, cyclists, and cars, with an emphasis on safety and community.
13. Tsundoku (Japanese)
Tsundoku is a Japanese word that describes the habit of buying and collecting books but never reading them. This is definitely one of the most relatable untranslatable words from around the world.
Related: How To Improve Communication Skills: 5 Proven Techniques
14. Pochemuchka (Russian)
Pochemuchka refers to an excessively curious and inquisitive child. It captures the enthusiastic and unrelenting nature of a child’s curiosity.
15. Hygge (Danish)
Hygge is one of the most popular untranslatable words from other languages. This Danish word describes a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being. It is often associated with comfortable surroundings, warm lighting, and good company.
So, which of the above untranslatable words from around the world did you like most? Let us know in comments.
Want more unique words in different languages with meaning? Read on.
16. Meraki (Greek)
Meraki is a Greek word that describes the essence of doing something with passion and soul, putting a piece of oneself into the work.
17. Mångata (Swedish)
Mångata is a Swedish word that describes the glimmering reflection of the moon on water. This is really one of the most untranslatable phrases.
18. Komorebi (Japanese)
Komorebi is a Japanese word that describes the sunlight filtering through the leaves of trees.
19. Gezelligheid (Dutch)
Gezelligheid is a Dutch word that describes a feeling of warmth, coziness, and conviviality. It is often associated with good food, good company, and a comfortable atmosphere.
20. Fika (Swedish)
Fika is a Swedish word that describes the tradition of taking a break to enjoy coffee and a sweet treat with friends or colleagues.
21. Sobremesa (Spanish)
Sobremesa is a Spanish word that describes the time spent lingering at the table after a meal, enjoying conversation and relaxation.
22. Torschlusspanik (German)
Torschlusspanik is a German word that describes the fear of running out of time or opportunity, often associated with the feeling of regret.
23. Ikigai (Japanese)
Ikigai is a Japanese word that describes a sense of purpose and meaning in life, often associated with one’s personal interests and values.
24. Uitwaaien (Dutch)
Uitwaaien is a Dutch word that describes the act of taking a walk in the wind to clear one’s mind and rejuvenate oneself.
25. Nunchi (Korean)
Nunchi is a Korean word that describes the ability to read and understand someone’s unspoken thoughts and feelings, often associated with social intelligence.
26. Dolce far niente (Italian)
The Italian phrase “dolce far niente” means “the sweetness of doing nothing.” It’s a reminder that it’s okay to take some time for yourself and relax.
27. Sisu (Finnish)
Sisu is a Finnish word that describes the strength of will, determination, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
28. Tretar (Swedish)
Tretar is a Swedish word that describes the feeling of having eaten a meal that was just the right amount, leaving one satisfied and content.
Related: Mastering Communication: Understanding Interpersonal Communication Definition And Importance
29. Gigil (Tagalog)
Gigil is a Tagalog word that describes the irresistible urge to pinch or squeeze something cute or adorable.
30. Koi No Yokan (Japanese)
Koi No Yokan is a Japanese word that describes the feeling of knowing that one is going to fall in love with someone after first meeting them.
Takeaway
These untranslatable phrases from other languages reveal the depth and complexity of human emotions, experiences, and cultures. They remind us that language is not just a tool for communication, but also a reflection of our unique perspectives and ways of understanding the world.
By exploring these untranslatable words from around the world, we can broaden our understanding of ourselves and others, and appreciate the richness and diversity of the human experience.
Did you enjoy learning about so many unique words in different languages with meaning? Let us know in comments below.
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