The English language is a living, breathing entity that evolves with time, but it still lacks certain words that capture unique emotions, experiences, or phenomena. While English is rich in vocabulary, there are concepts present in other languages that simply don’t have direct translations. This blog post explores some of these intriguing words that don’t exist in English but should, providing definitions and context to illustrate their importance.
The Joy of Missing Out (JOMO)
In an age dominated by social media and constant connectivity, the term "FOMO" (Fear of Missing Out) has become ubiquitous. However, its counterpart, "JOMO" (Joy of Missing Out), deserves equal recognition. JOMO refers to the pleasure derived from opting out of social events and embracing solitude or quiet moments. It captures that blissful feeling when you choose to stay in, binge-watch your favorite show, or curl up with a book instead of attending a crowded party.
Imagine a world where JOMO is celebrated rather than viewed as a sign of social failure. This concept encourages mindfulness and self-care, reminding us that it’s perfectly okay to prioritize one’s peace over societal expectations.
Schadenfreude
This German word describes the pleasure derived from someone else's misfortune. While the English language does offer phrases that hint at this feeling, none encapsulate it quite like "schadenfreude." It’s a complex emotion that can range from mild amusement at a friend’s clumsiness to a more sinister glee over a rival’s failure.
Having a word like schadenfreude in English would allow us to discuss this emotion more openly, without the need for lengthy explanations. It could foster better understanding of our own feelings and those of others, particularly in competitive environments like work or sports.
Wabi-Sabi
Rooted in Japanese aesthetics, "wabi-sabi" signifies a world view centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. It appreciates beauty that is imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete. In a society that often glorifies perfection and constant success, wabi-sabi serves as a gentle reminder that flaws are not only natural but also beautiful.
Incorporating wabi-sabi into our daily vocabulary could shift our perspective on beauty and success, encouraging us to embrace our own imperfections and the fleeting nature of life. It would promote a more profound appreciation for the world around us, fostering a sense of peace and contentment.
Meraki
Another gem from the Greek language, "meraki" means to do something with soul, creativity, or love—essentially, to put something of yourself into your work. This word embodies the passion and dedication that many individuals pour into their crafts, whether it’s cooking, writing, or any form of art.
Having a word like meraki in English would enrich our discussions about creativity and passion. It would allow us to express admiration for the effort and heart that goes into someone’s work, encouraging a deeper connection between creators and their audience.
Tsundoku
In Japanese, "tsundoku" refers to the act of acquiring books and letting them pile up, without reading them. It captures that familiar feeling of excitement when purchasing a new book, only to have it join a mountain of unread literature on your shelf.
In a world where reading is often touted as essential for personal growth, tsundoku acknowledges the reality of our busy lives. This term could foster a sense of camaraderie among book lovers, normalizing the struggle to keep up with our reading lists. Instead of feeling guilty for our stacks of unread books, we could embrace our collection as a testament to our love for literature.
Lagom
Originating from Sweden, "lagom" translates roughly to "just the right amount." It encapsulates the idea of moderation and balance, suggesting that one should strive for a lifestyle that is neither too much nor too little.
In a culture often driven by excess, having a word like lagom could inspire individuals to seek balance in various aspects of life, from work to leisure. It promotes the idea that happiness and fulfillment can be found in simplicity, encouraging us to appreciate what we have rather than constantly chasing more.
Sisu
This Finnish word embodies the spirit of determination and resilience in the face of adversity. Sisu is about having grit, courage, and the ability to push through even when the odds are stacked against you.
Incorporating sisu into the English lexicon would provide a powerful term for describing the strength required to overcome challenges. It could serve as motivation for individuals facing difficulties, reminding them that perseverance is often the key to success.
Ikigai
Another Japanese term, "ikigai" means "a reason for being." It combines the concepts of passion, mission, vocation, and profession to suggest that true happiness arises from finding a balance between what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
Bringing ikigai into English would allow for richer conversations about purpose and fulfillment in life. It would encourage individuals to reflect on their passions and values, guiding them towards a more meaningful existence.
While English is undoubtedly a versatile language, there are numerous words in other languages that capture the depth of human experience in ways that English cannot. Incorporating terms like JOMO, schadenfreude, wabi-sabi, meraki, tsundoku, lagom, sisu, and ikigai could enhance our ability to express ourselves and connect with others. By embracing these concepts, we can cultivate a richer understanding of our emotions, values, and the world around us. So, let’s advocate for these words to find their place in the English language, enriching our conversations and our lives.