Do you ever stop mid-sentence trying to find the perfect word that fits exactly what you’re trying to say? Of course you have. I wouldn’t believe you if you had answered any other way.
Sometimes the word you’re looking simply doesn’t exist… At least not in English. Here are 15 words from other languages that you should consider incorporating into your everyday vocabulary.
1. Shemomedjamo
This Georgian word is the action of continuing to eat when you're already full because the food is just that good.
2. Tartle
Tartle is a Scots way of expressing that panic you feel right before you introduce someone but can't remember his or her name.
On the outside, you're all...
But on the inside...
3. Greng-jai
Greng-jai is Thai for when you don't want someone to do something for you because you'd be inconveniencing them.
For me? Really? You shouldn't have.
4. Mencolek
That easy way to annoy your friends by tapping on one shoulder but really being on the other side? Indonesians call it Mencolek.
5. Boketto
Boketto is Japanese for when you simply stare into the distance without thinking.
6. Bilita Mpash
Bantu for waking up from not just any dream, but the best dream you've ever had.
7. Jayus
An Indonesian word for when you laugh at a joke for being bad.
8. Hyggelig
We all have that one friend who gives the best hugs. The best way to describe hyggelig is just that: safe, friendly, caring, cozy, content. This is all the emotions wrapped into one Danish word.
9. L’appel du vide
This French phrase describes that strange urge we feel to jump off high places, such as buildings.
10. Saudade
The Portuguese word saudade is related to nostalgia. It's when you long for someone or something you love but you know it won't come back.
11. Pochemuchka
2:53 p.m. Class was supposed to have finished at three minutes ago but didn't because of what the Russians call pochemuchka: someone who asks too many questions.
12. Gigil
The Filipino version of "IT'S SO FLUFFY I COULD DIE" feeling that makes you want to pinch or squeeze that adorableness.
13. L’esprit de l’escalier
French for the "aha" moment when you think of a comeback...when it's too late.
14. Pena ajen
Someone trips while receiving their diploma. That "oooh no" feeling of empathy you have while watching someone experience something embarrassing is the Spanish pena ajena.
Bonus!
15. Torschlusspanik
This German word is basically a combination of the fear of growing old and fear of missing out.
So take advantage of life and add a few new words to your dictionary. Your future torschlusspanik-self won’t regret it.
