How untranslatable words can make conversations more fun and meaningful

Posted February 28, 2025

It is important to show how untranslatable words can make conversations more fun and meaningful. It’s not just about the words themselves but also about the culture and emotions behind them. Let’s take this example:

The “Fernweh” Feeling

Character: Ana, an ESL student from Brazil
Word Learned: Fernweh (German – the longing for faraway places)

Ana had always dreamed of visiting London. She had never been there, but every time she watched movies set in England, she felt an ache in her heart. One day, in her English class, her teacher introduced the German word Fernweh.

“That’s exactly how I feel!” Ana exclaimed.

Her teacher smiled. “In English, you might say you have wanderlust or that you feel homesick for a place you’ve never been.”

Excited, Ana started using her new word in conversations. “I have Fernweh for London,” she told her friends. It became a fun way to express something she had never known how to say before.

A year later, Ana finally visited London. Standing on Tower Bridge, she smiled and whispered, “No more Fernweh—I’m here.”

Learning untranslatable words as an ESL student can be a fun and effective way to improve your English-speaking skills. Here are some strategies to help you master these phrases and use them naturally in conversation:

1. Understand the Concept Deeply

Instead of just memorizing the word, learn the cultural meaning behind it.
Find examples of how native speakers describe similar feelings or situations in English.

2. Use Analogies & Explanations

Since there’s no direct translation, practice explaining the meaning using simple words.
Example: The Japanese word “wabi-sabi” (finding beauty in imperfection) can be described as “appreciating things that aren’t perfect, like an old teacup with cracks that make it unique.”

3. Find English Equivalents or Alternatives

Even if there’s no perfect translation, there might be similar expressions.
Example: The German word “Fernweh” (longing for faraway places) is similar to “wanderlust” or “feeling homesick for a place you’ve never been.”

4. Practice Using Them in Conversations

Challenge yourself to describe situations using these words.
Example: If you’re learning “dépaysement” (French for the feeling of being in a completely different place), you could say: “When I moved to another country, I felt a little lost, like I was in a different world.”

5. Watch Videos & Read About These Words

Look for YouTube videos or blogs that explain untranslatable words with examples.
TED Talks, language learning websites, and cultural documentaries can be helpful.

6. Keep a Personal “Untranslatable Words” Journal

Write down the words, their meaning, and examples in English.
Try using them in daily conversations with friends or language partners.

I hope these tips inspire you to learn more vocabulary and use it confidently while learning English!

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: (954) 565 7607

JessicaL