These 8 genius words are missing in German

You've probably experienced the situation yourself many times when you're traveling or learning a new language and a word comes up that just doesn't translate. The relationship between these unique words and their translation is fascinating, and the meaning often settles deep within the emerging culture. By taking a closer look at some of the most beautiful untranslatable words from around the world, they can give us insight into different cultures and help us understand the people who speak these languages. 

Of course, there are so many beautiful words, but here are the 8 we like best:

Abbiocco - Italian

You're strolling through Rome and immediately the perfect place for dinner catches your eye. The menu is so impressive that you can't help but order all the delicious appetizers, main courses and desserts. When the food is eaten and you finally leave, you are overcome by the abbiocco - the fatigue and sluggishness after a large meal.

Aware - Japanese

Imagine intensely enjoying a perfect moment, while knowing that this moment is already fading into the past. This is exactly what causes a bittersweet feeling - bitter because it will soon be over, sweet because it is happening now - and the Japanese call this aware.

Ré nao (热闹) - Chinese

The Chinese word ré nao is usually translated as "lively" or "busy," but its true meaning goes beyond these adjectives. A place or situation that is ré nao is not only fun and lively, but also has a special vibe that makes everyone want to be there. A lively, special bar or club can be ré nao but also a university lecture or a meeting with friends.

Saudade - Portuguese

The nostalgic and burning longing for a person, place, situation or anything that is far away or loved and then lost. It evokes feelings of happy nostalgia and sadness at the same time, whether that's temporary or permanent. But don't be surprised if someone you've just met later says they're saudades for you when he meets you for the second time. Saudades is also often used in a casual "I miss you" sort of way.

Tartle - Scottish

Tartle is further proof that Scottish is a very different language from English. It describes an uncomfortable moment that I'm sure everyone has experienced. You're at a party talking to an acquaintance whose name you happen to have forgotten - and then you have to introduce them to someone else, so you hesitate. In Scotland, you just getartled. One of the words that the German language is definitely missing!

Utepils - Norwegian

You're sitting outside, the sun is shining, you have a beer in your hand. For many Norwegians, there's an ideal way to end the day. They apparently like it so much that they have a word, utepilsto describe this exact moment.

Voorpret - Dutch

You're about to embark on a big trip, so you buy some travel guides or browse our Travel magazineto find out what you can experience at your destination. The joy that you feel at this moment is voorpret, that's the fun you have just by looking forward to an event. Probably we can all relate to that, as we are just full of hope to be able to travel again soon and just can't hold back our voorpret for our first trip after the holidays;)

Wabi-Sabi - Japanese

Fortunately, there is no such thing as perfect - and we think that's the beauty of it! Our flaws, quirks and idiosyncrasies are what make us so unique and special. Accept all your flaws and listen to the Japanese, because someone will surely find the Wabi-Sabi, the beauty in the imperfect, find it in you. 

All those expressions made your Wanderlust reinforced? Then take a look at our Travel and discover new countries and cultures together with us.