Spanish is a language full of nuances and emotions. Some of our words are so specific to our culture that they don't have a direct translation into other languages, like English.
Here are the 10 most fascinating ones:
1. Sobremesa
Perhaps the most beloved word. It's the time you spend sitting at the table after eating, chatting with friends or family. In Spain or Mexico, this can last for hours!
2. Estrenar
In English, you have to say "to wear for the first time." In Spanish, we only need one word for that special feeling of using something brand new.
3. Friolento/a
For that person who is always cold, even when everyone else is feeling fine.
| Word | Definition | English Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Anteayer | The day before yesterday | Only one word! |
| Tocayo | A person with the same name | Namesake (but more common) |
| Madrugada | Between 1 am and dawn | Early morning |
| Empalagar | To get tired of something too sweet | To be cloying |
[!TIP] Extra Fact: The word 'Vergüenza ajena' is very common. It means feeling embarrassed or ashamed on behalf of someone else. In English, people often use the German term 'Schadenfreude', but it's not exactly the same.
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Cultural Vocabulary
| Term | Usage |
|---|---|
| Tutear | To use the informal 'tú' |
| Desvelado | Having missed sleep |
| Puente | A long weekend |
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EasyLangs Editorial
Expert linguistic and cultural insights.