Every language has its own grace, uniqueness, and complexities. Yup! You read it right, Complexities! If you are a language lover, you may have noticed that there are numerous expressions in one language that have no refuge in another language.
One such is the Italian language. This language is said to be the language of romance. In terms of vocabulary, it is the second-closest language to Latin right after Sardinian.
This post uncovers 7 words from the Italian language that are so-called untranslatable. However, we got handy definitions for few words, but they cannot be assumed as exact meaning.
Take a glance at them, one by one:
Apericena:
In the English language, we use the French word “aperitif” to define an alcoholic drink before meal. In Italy, it is known as an “aperitivo.” When you pay for a glass of wine before dinner, you get a free buffet of food and in this way; this special tipple becomes an “apericena,” a cross between “aperitif” and “dinner.”
Ciofeca:
The “Ciofeca” represents anything of poor quality. Mostly used to define a disgusting drink, but in English context, “Crap” would be the nearby translation. However, this Italian word has no exact replacement in the English language.
Culaccino:
Have you ever noticed that annoying watermark on your table when you put a cold or wet glass? Well, in Italy, it is considered so irritating that they have even a word for it: “Culaccino.”
Gattara:
Well, you would be surprised to know that “Gattara” exists in every country, but it has no refuge in English. “Gattara” means a woman, typically elderly who dedicates her time to look after stray cats.
Magari!:
It is a tricky word that has different meanings and cannot be directly translated. Typically, one can translate this word as “even if”, “maybe” or “probably” in an English sentence. But, with an exclamation sign, “magari!” becomes an expression of a strong desire.
For instance, if your friend asks if you want to be a billionaire, you may candidly say “magari!” This word has no exact equivalent in the English language.
Menefreghista:
In the Italian language, you might have heard this phrase “Non me ne frega!” which means “I don’t care!” Italians also use “Menefreghista” as a noun to describe someone who thinks with the same feeling. The English language has no equivalent or nearby replacement for this word.
Meriggiare:
Originating from the word “meriggio” (noon), “meriggiare” is a wonderful verb that means resting at midday in a shady (under a tree) spot. You can find the usage of this word in a poem by Eugenio Montale.
Pantofolaio:
Word “Couch potato” maybe its closest equivalent in English for the Italian word “pantofolaio,” but it is not as humorous. In Italian, you might have heard “pantofole” which means “Slippers.” But, a “pantofolaio” is one who prefers the quiet home life and don’t want to get involved in any activity (hence the slippers).
Suggest few more interesting words that have no equivalent in the English Language.
In the beginning, we mentioned that every language has its complexities, and Italian is not different from others. We know this fact better than the most because document translation is our full-time job, and we have the most skilled translators at work. Whether it is driver’s license translation, certified translation, or business translation, we do it all. For any translation help, feel free to reach us at 888-670-3369.