There are a lot of terms in other languages that could describe specific scenarios we’ve all experienced perfectly. However, some of these phrases cannot be directly translated into English. Here are 15 words from around the world that cannot be deciphered by English translation services or interpreting services:
‘Bilita Mpash’ (Bantu) – No English Translation
This word describes an “excellent dream”.
‘Gattara’ (Italian) – No English Translation
This word refers to a woman with many cats who would rather spend time with her animals than with other humans. Perhaps the closest term in English is ‘crazy cat lady.’
‘Utepils’ (Norwegian) – No English Translation
This word means to sit outside on a nice day and enjoy a beer.
‘Lagom’ (Swedish) – No English Translation
Not too much, not too little, just right. The Swedes have moderation down.
‘Treppenwitz’ (German) – No English Translation
With the help of German translation, this term refers to a clever remark that comes to mind long after you can say it. This has undoubtedly happened to you; now you have a word for it!
‘Fernweh’ (German)
Want to go somewhere you’ve never been to? Wanderlust is similar, but Fernweh refers to homesickness for a completely unknown place.
‘Schnapsidee’ (German)
Have you ever had a great idea after one too many drinks? Schnapsidee refers to “brilliant” plans that originate when intoxicated.
‘Shemomedjamo’ (Georgian)
This word describes when you are eating something so delicious you don’t even stop when you are full.
‘Iktsuarpok’ (Inuit)
This word describes when you’re so eager for someone to arrive at your house that you keep heading outside to see if they’re there.
‘Tsundoku’ (Japanese)
This word describes hoarding books and never reading them; you’ve purchased all those classics you said you’d read – but then they pile up on the floor, gathering dust.
‘Mencolek’ (Indonesian)
Mencolek describes when you tap someone on the opposite shoulder to get them to look in the wrong direction.
‘Hygge’ (Danish)
The word refers to an activity, place, or moment of coziness that can be enjoyed alone or with loved ones.
‘Sobremesa’ (Spanish)
It refers to the moment after a meal when people sit at the table chatting, playing a game, or drinking coffee.
‘Samar’ (Arabic)
This word means to enjoy conversation with friends after the sun goes down.
Rely On Us For English Translation
Translation is not about finding a word to replace another one. It is about communicating ideas and concepts into a different language. Untranslatability is a natural part of translation; it’s hard to find the perfect word with the same meaning in another language, but the goal should be for the two words to be as close as possible.
Looking for professional translation agencies is always helpful if your organization is in need of accurate translations. Thanks to our national and global network of linguists, we offer translation services in 100+ languages. Whether you need Spanish translation, German translation, or Arabic translation services, Language Connections is always here to offer the most accurate translation and localization services.
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