10 Untranslatable Words That Will Change Your Perspective on Life

Language is more than just a tool for communication—it shapes the way we see and experience the world, especially through untranslatable words that capture unique cultural perspectives and emotions.

Some concepts are so deeply embedded in a culture that they become nearly impossible to translate into other languages without losing their essence.

These untranslatable words capture emotions, relationships, and experiences that may not have a direct equivalent in English, offering a glimpse into how different cultures perceive life.

In this article, we will explore 10 powerful words from various languages that will expand your understanding of human emotions and connections.

Each of these words reveals something unique about the way people around the world navigate life, relationships, and self-discovery.

1. Komorebi (Japanese) – The Light That Filters Through Trees

There is something magical about the way sunlight filters through leaves, casting dancing shadows on the ground.

In English, we might describe it as “dappled light” or “sunlight through trees,” but the Japanese language gives us a word that encapsulates this fleeting, poetic moment: komorebi.

This word reflects the deep appreciation for nature found in Japanese culture, where everyday beauty is cherished.

Komorebi is not just about the light itself, but also the feeling of serenity it evokes, reminding us to pause and appreciate small moments of wonder.

2. Saudade (Portuguese) – A Deep, Melancholic Longing

One of the most famous untranslatable words, saudade is often described as a profound sense of longing or nostalgia for something or someone that may never return.

It is not just missing something—it is a feeling infused with melancholy, beauty, and a sense of incompleteness.

The Portuguese language, particularly in Brazil and Portugal, uses saudade in poetry, music, and everyday speech. It can refer to missing a loved one, yearning for a past moment, or even longing for an experience that has never been fully realized.

Unlike simple nostalgia, saudade embraces both sorrow and appreciation, showing that longing can be a meaningful part of life rather than just an absence.

3. Wabi-Sabi (Japanese) – The Beauty of Imperfection

The Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi is difficult to define in a single phrase. It is a way of seeing the world—one that finds beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and the natural cycle of life.

Rather than striving for perfection, wabi-sabi embraces flaws as part of the beauty of existence.

A cracked teacup, a weathered wooden bench, or the changing colors of autumn leaves all embody this concept. It teaches us to accept transience and imperfection with grace, encouraging a mindset of appreciation rather than dissatisfaction.

In a world obsessed with flawlessness, wabi-sabi offers a refreshing perspective: beauty is not in perfection, but in authenticity and the passage of time.

4. Fernweh (German) – A Longing for Distant Places

Unlike homesickness, which is the desire to return to a familiar place, fernweh describes the opposite feeling—the deep yearning to explore the unknown.

It is often translated as “wanderlust,” but fernweh carries a stronger emotional pull, almost a homesickness for places you have never been.

This word reflects the adventurous spirit found in many cultures, the need to break free from routine and seek new experiences.

Whether it is the desire to walk through ancient streets, climb mountains, or experience a different way of life, fernweh speaks to the human instinct for discovery and expansion.

5. Meraki (Greek) – Doing Something with Soul and Passion

In Greek, the word meraki refers to the act of putting your heart, creativity, and soul into everything you do. It goes beyond simply working hard—it means infusing a task with personal care, dedication, and deep love.

A chef cooking a meal with meraki, an artist painting with emotion, or a gardener tending to their plants with care—these are all examples of this concept in action.

It reminds us that the quality of our work and experiences is not just about skill, but about the energy and love we invest in them.

Meraki teaches us that anything we do, no matter how small, has meaning when approached with passion and authenticity.

Read also: Tongue Twisters: How They Differ Across Cultures

6. Ubuntu (Zulu/Xhosa, South Africa) – “I Am Because We Are”

The philosophy of ubuntu comes from the indigenous cultures of South Africa and is deeply connected to community, kindness, and shared humanity.

At its core, it expresses the idea that our identity and well-being are tied to those around us—we are who we are because of our relationships with others.

Ubuntu is not just a word; it is a way of life. It emphasizes compassion, mutual support, and collective responsibility.

In a world that often prioritizes individual success, ubuntu reminds us that true fulfillment comes from our connections and contributions to others.

7. Hygge (Danish) – The Feeling of Cozy Contentment

Denmark is often ranked among the happiest countries in the world, and one possible reason is hygge—a concept that embodies warmth, comfort, and contentment.

More than just a physical state, hygge is a feeling of coziness and well-being that comes from enjoying simple pleasures, like sitting by a fireplace with friends, sipping tea on a rainy day, or reading a book under a soft blanket.

Hygge teaches us to slow down and appreciate moments of warmth and relaxation, reminding us that happiness often lies in the small, everyday experiences.

8. Iktsuarpok (Inuit) – The Restless Anticipation of a Visitor

From the Inuit language, iktsuarpok describes the feeling of excitement and anticipation while waiting for someone to arrive.

It is that moment when you keep looking out the window or stepping outside to see if a visitor is approaching.

This untranslatable word captures the human longing for connection, showing how deeply we crave interaction and the joy of expecting someone’s arrival. It reminds us that anticipation is sometimes just as meaningful as the moment itself.

9. Mangata (Swedish) – The Pathway of Light on Water

Have you ever watched the moon’s reflection stretching across the water, creating a shimmering path of light? In Swedish, there is a word for this breathtaking sight: mangata.

It is a perfect example of how language can capture a fleeting, poetic moment that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Mangata reminds us to pay attention to the beauty in the natural world—those small, enchanting details that make life feel magical.

10. Gezellig (Dutch) – A Warm and Pleasant Atmosphere

The Dutch word gezellig describes something that brings warmth, comfort, and joy—whether it’s spending time with loved ones, being in a cozy café, or feeling at home in a welcoming space.

It is similar to hygge but focuses more on the social aspect of coziness.

Gezellig is not just about physical surroundings; it’s about the feeling of belonging and togetherness. It teaches us that happiness is often found in shared experiences and the simple pleasure of enjoying the company of others.

The Power of Untranslatable Words

Language shapes the way we understand the world, and these untranslatable words offer windows into different cultural perspectives.

They remind us that certain emotions, experiences, and philosophies cannot always be neatly defined—but they can be deeply felt.

By embracing these words, we gain a broader appreciation for the diversity of human experiences, learning that there are infinite ways to express love, connection, longing, and beauty.

The next time you find yourself struggling to describe a feeling or experience, consider that another language may already have the perfect word for it.