Unique Spanish words that don’t exist in English

Spanish is full of words and concepts that simply don’t have a direct translation in English. Who hasn’t tried to explain the meaning of "sobremesa" to an English-speaking friend? That special tradition of staying at the table and chatting after a meal. Or "estrenar," which describes the feeling of using something for the first time, whether it's a new dress or even a brand-new phone.

 

Image source: Canva

 

These words aren’t just untranslatable; they tell stories and reflect the cultural richness of Spanish. Here’s a list of some of them that will surely make you smile and think:

1. Sobremesa: That special moment of relaxing and chatting after a meal. It’s more than a break; it’s an opportunity to connect.
2. Estrenar: The excitement of using something for the first time. Who hasn’t felt thrilled when you put the first coat of paint on something new?
3. Empalagar: That feeling when something is so sweet, so rich, that you just can’t handle more of it. Or when a TV series has so many episodes that you feel "empalagadísimo" from watching them.
4. Desvelado: That sensation of being awake all night, staring at the ceiling while everyone else is asleep. The insomnia has its own word in Spanish.
5. Friolero/Friolento: Those people who, no matter how warm it is, always feel cold. If you’re someone who always wears a jacket, you’re probably friolero!
6. Madrugar: Waking up very early, at hours when the world is still silent. The perfect verb for those days when you have to start your day before the sun rises.
7. Merienda: That light meal you enjoy in the afternoon, right between lunch and dinner. It’s not breakfast, lunch, or dinner... it’s a perfect moment for a coffee and something sweet!
8. Empujón: That unexpected push someone gives you to do something, whether it’s an emotional push to reach your goals or a physical push in a crowded place.
9. Apetecer: It’s not just being hungry; it’s specifically craving something, like when you really want to eat a certain dish, drink, or snack... and you feel your body is asking for it.
10. Chido: In some regions of Mexico, it’s a word that means something is really good, cool, or amazing. It’s such an exciting and fun term that it’s hard not to use it.

 

 

Image source: Canva

 

At Spoken Learning, we know that learning a language is much more than memorizing vocabulary and grammar. It’s about immersing yourself in a new way of seeing the world. That’s why our classes are designed to help you discover these unique words in a fun and practical way. You’ll learn not just how they are pronounced or written, but also how to use them in real contexts while enjoying interactive activities, stories, and games.

Just imagine telling your English-speaking friends about the joy of "sobremesa" or the unbeatable feeling of "estrenar"! We promise that learning Spanish with us will be as unique an experience as the words you'll discover.

Ready to explore the fun and cultural side of Spanish? At Spoken Learning, we make learning as exciting as using something new for the first time. We’re waiting for you!

 

 

 

Image source: Canva