We have all faced language barriers more than a few times either while traveling, working or simply when socializing. We should all stop blaming ourselves for those e-tutoring sessions we never took at Living Language. Some words and concepts are simply hard, or even impossible, to translate!
The Greek language posts no exception to that! Let’s look at some words that need more than a sentence –even a paragraph sometimes–to translate in English.
1. Φιλότιμο, το (phi-LO-ti-mo= filos+timi=friend+honor) – neuter noun
It is considered a virtue, one of the highest, among the Greek culture. It is about respecting and honoring ones heritage and family. It is a way of living that makes one stands out from the rest with unconditional love and code of ethics.
2. Κέφι, το (KE-phi) –neuter noun
Κέφι is the joy, pleasure, humor, conviviality, gusto, jubilation, good mood and spirits, urge to do beautiful things and fancy to do even more that is not related to alcohol or pleasant events just a psychological state of euphoria.
3. Μεράκι, το ( me-RA-ki) – neuter noun
It’s used to describe things we do something with all our soul, love, creativity and skills. Μεράκι is often used when referring to cooking. However, “putting something of ourselves, a part of us” in whatever we do is what μεράκι is all about.
4. Παρέα (pa-RE-a) - feminine noun
It’s the companion, group of friends, social intercourse. As a concept in our culture, our παρέα is more than a companion. Παρέα is our inner circle of friends who are like family and more!
5. Καψούρα (ka-PSU-ra)
You are not Greek, or in any way close to the Greek culture, if you don’t know what καψούρα is! Κάψα (KA-psa) is the slang word for heat. Kαψούρα is that “burning sensation” of love, more than having a crash or being in love. Kαψούρα is the passion beyond life itself even if you know you are to be “burned” by this love.
Want more Greek? Check out our course offerings here and get started learning today.