Ever find yourself looking for that perfect word to express the situation only to run into the harsh reality that *gasp* it doesn't exist? Have I got news for you. According to a highly informative magazine article I just ran into, there's a word for that. All it requires is ditching the English language. Who needs it anyway?
5 Expressions That Ought to Exist in Our Native Tongue But Don't
Jayus (Indonesian)- a joke so poorly told and unfunny that one cannot help but laugh.
Toska (Russian)- may refer to a deep spiritual anguish, a less morbid dull ache, an unfulfilled longing, a vague restlessness, lovesickness, or perhaps even...
{{ insert mournful violin music here }}
boredom.
Oh, SUCH toska!
Iktsuarpok (Inuit)- to go outside to check if anyone is coming.
Tingo (Pascuense, Easter Island)- the act of taking objects one desires from the house of a friend by gradually borrowing all of them.
Oh yes, there's a word for that.
Tartle (Scottish)- the act of hesitating while introducing someone because you've forgotten his name.
Wow. Leave it to the Scots to encompass the whole embarrassing situation in two measly syllables.
Isn't it good to know that the power of expression is within your grasp? And WHAT is wrong with you, English language? I think I'm feeling some toska here. Until next time, this is your resident word nerd.
posted by Lydia
this post not only angered me at English but brought a little smile into my day (due to your lovely sarcasm! :D) Thanks! It's nice to know that "Toska" actually exists, whether or not it's in my native tongue :D
ReplyDeleteHaha ... Wow, what a great post. I am feeling some toska at the moment, and did not even know there was a word to capture the entire gamete of emotions! I'm also proud of my Scots for making tartle ;)
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I'm happy you're a word nerd.
- Scott