English is spoken in many countries, but the language isn’t perfect. Many words in other languages have no English equivalent; how strange is that? Recently, savvy linguists met in an online discussion to reveal their favorite native words with no precedent in English.
According to a native speaker, it “describes a particular feeling of being cozy, safe, and protected,” one woman explains. “How you would feel when you’re around loved ones sitting around a fire or when the person you love holds you under the warm covers when it’s raining outside.”
Gatvol is an incredibly fantastic word, tracing its roots to the Afrikaans language. Native speakers describe the term as being fed up about something but in a much more expressive sense than what English speakers are used to.
I can’t tell you how often I’ve experienced verschlimmbessern. The German term describes a situation which you try to fix yourself but only make things worse. Where was a word like this back when I was younger? It would’ve been my motto!
The Polish language is home to some pretty unique words, one of the most notable being “kolega.” It’s a term that describes a friend who you like spending time with, whether it’s hanging out socially or just having a beer.
I admire so many words found in the Spanish language. Many are direct and to the point! For example, estrenar means to use something for the first time. How cool is that?
Przyjaciel is a friend you don’t need to keep in touch with, and your relationship can remain strong. It describes someone you can call after a few years of not communicating and pick up right where you left off.