The way a language works is tightly related to the worldview of its speakers.
There’s no better example than the existence of untranslatable words in any language.
Some words, like “Sobremesa” in Spanish, are linked to certain traditions. Others, like “Backpfeifengesicht” in German are about ways we relate to others (and to ourselves) and the way we see the world.
In the case of Chinese, there are many words that have no precise English translation.
Some refer to customs and traditions, like the aforementioned “Sobremesa” in Spanish — which designates the time one spends around the table after a meal, chatting with friends and family — while others are as abstract and precise as “Backpfeifengesicht” – the feeling that someone should be slapped
Let’s take a look at 10 words in the Chinese language that have no English translation:
Untranslatable Word #1 is 香 : xiāng
While 香 could be translated as “fragrant”, when we’re referring to food, this term alludes to a rich, strong food smell that opens up your appetite.
You’ll often hear this used to describe food at the table so keep an ear out. That said though, there isn’t really a like-minded word in English
Untranslatable Word #2 is 孝順 : xiào shùn
孝順 is a term inspired by Confucian philosophy. It might be translated as “filial piety”.
It’s a sense of obedience and duty to one’s parents.
In youth, 孝順 is about listening to one’s parents and doing as they say.
In adulthood, it’s about one’s obligation to take care of them.
Untranslatable Word #3 is 面子 : miàn zi
Understanding the concept of “face” (or 面子), also translated as “honor”, “reputation” or “self-respect” is key to understanding the way social relations form in China.
While Westerners might want to be perceived as noble but flawed, and one builds closeness and respect by recognising mistakes and being able to laugh at oneself, Chinese people tend to have incredibly strict behavioural standards and gravitate towards solemnity.
The concept of “face” is “untranslatable” because it is, at heart, characteristically Chinese.
Untranslatable Word #4 is 脸 : liǎn
脸 is often translated as “a sense of shame and deep care about socially-established standards in morality and behavior”. It’s the foundation of 面子.
Untranslatable Word #5 is 见外 : jiàn wài
见外 means to be unnecessarily polite with someone you are closed to.
The literal translation, “to look outside”.
While etiquette is crucial in Chinese society, just like “saving face”, Chinese people tend to relax their manners when they’re with close friends or family.
Saying “thank you” to a friend for a favour, for instance, is seen as 见外.
Untranslatable Word #6 is 冤枉 : yuān wǎng
冤枉 could be translated as “judging someone unjustly for a crime that they didn’t commit”.
One of the most amazing traits of the Chinese language is that such situations can be synthesised in one or two logograms.
The term’s literal translation is “to wrongfully accuse”
Untranslatable Word #7 is 关系 : guān xì
关系 is a mutually beneficial relationship that is not based on manipulation or mere interest, but that can open doors for both parties.
This “connection” (another literal translation of the term) can be thought of as “networking”, but it’s not limited to professional or business settings, and it involves a deeper sense of friendship.
Untranslatable Word #8 is 撒娇 : sā jiāo
撒娇 means “acting like a spoiled child” in a cute way.
This behavior is very common in couples, when one of the partners is jokingly acting pouty or exaggerating their reaction to a certain situation in a cute and childish way.
Chinese-English dictionaries tend to define 撒娇 as “to act like a spoiled child”, “to throw a tantrum” and “to act coquettishly”.
Untranslatable Word #9 is 辛苦 : xīn kǔ
The term 辛苦, literally translated as “hard”, “exhausting” or “with much toil”, is used to communicate that one recognises someone’s hard work and thanks them for it.
Untranslatable Word #10 is 傾聽 : qīng tīng
When a teacher you greatly respect is giving you advice, you 傾聽: You listen attentively and respectfully.
It basically means when you are listening out of respect and courtesy.
Post time: Mar-09-2020