Words In Spanish That You Can’t Translate To English

How to Say Words in Spanish That You Can’t Translate to English

Introduction

When learning a new language, it’s not uncommon to come across words that simply cannot be fully translated into your native tongue. Spanish, a beautiful and expressive language, is no exception. In this article, we will explore some words in Spanish that have no direct English translation and provide you with insights on how to express their meaning effectively.

Sobremesa

One of the unique aspects of Spanish culture is the concept of “sobremesa.” This word refers to the time spent lingering at the table after a meal, enjoying the company of others and engaging in relaxed conversation. The closest English equivalent may be “table talk,” but it fails to capture the essence of the leisurely and intimate experience that sobremesa represents. To convey this idea in English, you could describe it as the act of savoring the moment and cherishing the connections made over a shared meal.

Friolero/Friolento

If you’ve ever met someone who is particularly sensitive to cold temperatures, you may have wished for a word to describe them in English. In Spanish, you have “friolero” (male) or “friolenta” (female). These terms are used to describe individuals who are more prone to feeling cold than others. While you could use phrases like “cold-sensitive” or “easily chilled” in English, they lack the succinctness and cultural connotation that “friolero/friolenta” carries.

Merienda

In Spanish-speaking countries, the concept of “merienda” is deeply ingrained in daily life. It refers to a light meal or snack, usually enjoyed in the late afternoon between lunch and dinner. While “snack” may seem like an appropriate translation, it fails to capture the cultural significance and the specific time frame associated with “merienda.” To convey the idea in English, you could explain it as a small, comforting meal that bridges the gap between lunch and dinner.

Empalagar

Have you ever eaten something so deliciously sweet or rich that you couldn’t possibly have another bite? In Spanish, you can describe that feeling with the word “empalagar.” This verb encompasses the sensation of being overwhelmed or nauseated by excessive sweetness or richness. In English, you could try using phrases like “to be overwhelmed by sweetness” or “to be sickened by richness,” but they lack the concise and impactful nature of “empalagar.”

Desvelado

When you stay up all night and find yourself sleep-deprived the next day, you can describe that state as “desvelado” in Spanish. This word goes beyond the simple notion of being awake; it conveys the feeling of being tired due to a lack of sleep. In English, you could explain it as “to be sleep-deprived” or “to have pulled an all-nighter,” but these phrases fail to capture the exhaustion and weariness associated with “desvelado.”

Conclusion

Learning a language goes beyond translating words directly. It involves understanding and embracing the cultural nuances and unique expressions that shape a language. Spanish offers a plethora of words that cannot be fully translated into English, but by exploring their meanings and finding suitable explanations, we can bridge the linguistic gap and truly appreciate the richness of both languages. So, next time you encounter a word you can’t translate, remember that it’s an opportunity to delve deeper into the beauty of language learning.

Bdsm Corset