Words we don’t have in English

Sometimes, there are no words to describe something. But maybe there is in another language? Check out some words below that have no direct English translation from a variety of languages.

1. Greng-jai (Thai)

You know when you have to ask for help, but feel bad for asking to help as you know it’s an inconvenience for someone else? The feeling of not wanting to ask is greng-jai.

2. Sobremesa (Spanish)

The moment when you are out with friends for dinner, the food has been finished but the conversation continues? This is sobremesa. It’s the conversation filled with happiness, comfort and a full belly!

3. Kummerspeck (German)

This refers to the weight you’ve put on from emotionally overeating. It literally translates as “grief-bacon.”

4. Gigil (Filipino)

The act of wanting to pinch something really cute is called “gigil”! Do you remember when you were younger and your aunt would pinch your cheek? This is called gigil!

5. Pana Po’o (Hawaiian)

Hawaiians have ingeniously created a word for the act of scratching your head when you’ve forgotten something.

6. Zeg (Georgian)

“Zeg” refers specifically to the day after tomorrow.

7. Wabi-sabi (Japanese)

Finding the beauty in imperfections is wabi-sabi. It is recognising that our flaws are what makes us unique and special.

8. Forelsket (Norwegian)

You know that feeling you first feel when you’re beginning to fall in love? In Norway, this is called “forelsket”. One of the best feelings in the world, apparently!

9. Commuovere (Italian)

Have you ever heard such a beautiful, heartwarming story it’s made you cry? This is referred to as “commuovere” in Italy!

10. Hygge (Danish)

This word is slowly gaining more popularity as Denmark are using this word as their defining characteristic; “hygge” is the combination of cosiness, comfort and contentment all at once.

11. Meraki (Greek)

Meraki is doing something with extensive passion, where you leave a little of yourself in the project. You can paint with meraki, cook with meraki, etc.

12. Depaysement (French)

This word is very relevant to all us expats right now; it refers to feeling like a stranger in the country you’re living in. Being very aware of being away from home and being a foreigner in another country.

Do you have any other words you would add to this list?