Untranslatable words

Languages are fascinating, not just because of the words they contain, but because of the words they don’t.

Have you ever been in the middle of a deep conversation in another language, only to stumble because the exact word you need simply doesn’t exist in English?

With thousands of languages spoken around the world, each is like its own treasure chest of unique words. Some are so poetic and beautiful that they’re impossible to translate. Here are a few of those words that have captured my imagination.

This list is non-exhaustive, you may find yourself returning to it and discovering new words.

•  木漏れ日 (Komorebi: Japanese): the sunlight filtering through the trees and creating a dance of light and shadows as the leaves sway in the wind. This shimmering effect is fleeting, existing only in that one moment.

• 인연 (inyeon: Korean): "fate" or "connection," particularly in the context of relationships and encounters. It denotes the idea that certain people or events are connected through destiny or a meaningful bond, often beyond one's control. This term captures the sense that relationships and experiences are interconnected by a deeper, sometimes mysterious, force.

• Fika (Swedish): refers to having a social coffee break, where you sit with family, friends, or colleagues to enjoy coffee or tea, usually accompanied by something sweet. It’s a cultural practice emphasizing relaxation, social interaction, and pausing daily routines.

• Ro (Swedish): tranquility, peace, calm, stillness, quietness.

• Hygge (Danish): a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being.

• Dolce Vita: sweet life; the good life perceived as one of physical pleasure and self-indulgence. The phrase is famously associated with a sense of living life to the fullest, appreciating beauty, and enjoying good food, company, and experiences.

• Serendipity (English): good luck in making unexpected and fortunate discoveries.

• авось  (Avose: Russian): translated as "maybe" (or more literally, "may be"), it carries a deeper meaning. It reflects a kind of blind belief that things will turn out well, embodying an optimistic hope that luck will favor you.

• Botellón (Spanish): literally 'big bottle,' refers to an activity where people gather in public places to socialize while drinking alcohol.

• Dépaysement (French): the feeling of being in a new or unfamiliar place, away from your usual environment. It describes the mix of disorientation and excitement when you experience a different culture or lifestyle.

• 闺蜜 (Guīmì: Mandarin): describes a connection between female friends that is so deep and intimate it goes beyond typical friendship, nearing the closeness of sisterhood.

• Besa (Albanian): embodies a deep sense of loyalty and reliability, reflecting a cultural value where one's word and trustworthiness are held in high regard.