Translation from one language to another can be very difficult if there isn’t an exact word for what you are trying to say. Those who can speak a different language know the struggle. Nonetheless, you can learn a lot about a culture when paying attention to the words that they use. Below are a few words that don’t exist in English. Some may have a translation, but it will take more than two words to express it.
1. Pena Ajena/Vergüenza Ajena
Have you ever seen someone wear or do something embarrassing and you feel a pang of shame for that person? Well, in Spanish there’s a way to describe that feeling. “Pena ajena” or “Verguenza ajena” is a phrase used to describe the feeling of shame/embarrassment for someone else, whether or not they feel embarrassed themselves.
2. Desvelado
“Desvelado” is a way to describe your inability to sleep or sleep deprivation. Literally, it could translate to “I haven’t been able to get much sleep.”
3. Tuerto
“Tuerto” is an interesting word that is used to describe a certain physical feature. The word translates to “A one-eyed man.”
4. Friolento/Friolero
Have you ever used the phrase “I get cold easily” to explain why the heater is one at all times? Well, “Friolento” or “Friolero” is a Spanish word used to describe someone who is sensitive to cold.
5. Te Quiero
“Te quiero” literally translates to “I want you.” However, it doesn’t mean that at all; it is actually another way of expressing your endearment to someone. It’s more meaningful than saying “I like you,” but less meaningful than saying “I love you.” If this word existed in English it would be the perfect way to tell your new partner that you really care for them, but aren’t quite in love with them yet. Or it could also be a casual way to express endearment for friends and family.
6. Merendar
What do you say when you want to go out and grab a snack with one of your friends? You don’t know what you guys are eating yet, but you know it has to be something lighter than a full course. It will probably take you more than two words to say it. In Spanish, you can use “merendar” to say you’re going to eat something light.
7. Estrenar
This word is commonly used in Spanish. “Estrenar” is the act of wearing and/or using something for the first time.
8. Sobremesa
In the United States, people will usually go dine at a restaurant and leave after everyone's done eating. Sometimes it even seems rude to stay at the restaurant after the check has been paid. However, in many Spanish speaking countries it is common to stay at the table for hours after the meal is over and talk. “Sobremesa” is a one-word description of a conversation that takes place at the table after the meal is over.
9. Empalagar
Have you ever started eating something sweet (perhaps a rich chocolate cake with decadent chocolate mousse filling) and then halfway through you had to stop because the sweetness became a bit too much? In Spanish, “empalagar” is a one-word translation to that feeling. It is a literal translation of the feeling of disgust after eating something overwhelmingly sweet.
10. Madrugar
“Madrugar” is a verb used to describe the act of getting up early or to get a head start. While there are phrases you can use to translate that word. There is no single-word translation for that act.
11. Anteayer
“Anteayer” is a one-word way of saying, “the day before yesterday.”
12. Resol
Have any of you held a phone in your hand when the sun’s glare was hitting it and tried shining the light onto someone’s face? I’ve done this more than I would like to admit. In Spanish, you can describe the sun’s reflection off of a surface with the word “resol”.
13. Buen Provecho
“Buen provecho” is a commonly used phrase to tell someone to enjoy their meal or to wish them good eating. Many people have probably heard, or even used, the french version “Bon appétit.” Nonetheless, there is no common phrase that expresses the exact sentiment in English.
14. Duende
“Duende” is one of the most difficult words to translate into English. The word is meant to describe a feeling or awe, inspiration, and authenticity. In other words, it can also be described as a heightened state of emotion; however, there are many contexts for its definition
Words like these make Spanish to English translation difficult. However, there are many words in the English language that don’t have an exact translation to Spanish either. Just to name a few, words like reliability, accountability, awkward and toes don’t have an exact translation into Spanish.
