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The words a language uses can tell you a lot about its cultural and societal values. And language can evolve over time, taking on new meanings and growing organically to embrace challenges. That’s especially true of the ways in which…
When I was in elementary school I went to a Spanish immersion school. And when I was in first grade, an obsession rippled through our school. The obsession was a song (with some amazingly choreographed dance moves) called “Asereje” by…
I tutor a French middle schooler, and he speaks almost perfect English. We’ll talk for 30 minutes and he’ll make one, two or sometimes zero mistakes. I also tutor a few French friends who are in their 20s. Some of…
Would you find it particularly cute if your boyfriend called you his flea? Or how about if your wife sent you a cute text calling you, the love of her life, her cabbage? How about if your partner addressed a…
When you’re popping into a holiday party, it’s considerate to bring a gift for the host or hostess. Many people choose flowers since they’re a beautiful and gracious way to extend thanks, but different flowers can have different meanings across cultures. In South Africa for instance, it’s customary to give flowers during the holidays, but in Egypt, they are only appropriate as gifts when attending a funeral.
Thoughtfulness and a little cultural sensitivity translate well in any language.We may have different names for Santa Claus or Father Christmas, but the reason for our joy across the world remains the same. During the holiday season, we unite in…
What is Makar Sankranti?Makara Sankranti is an important and particularly joyous festival in the Hindu calendar. This celebration is dedicated to the deity Surya, the god of the sun, and marks the transition from the time of Capricorn. This harvest…
Conquer your fear of language learning. 0
Today we hear from Suma Das, a London-based solo-traveler who’s always making plans for her next trip. In addition to working full-time in public policy, this polyglot has traveled all over the world, photographing her journey and picking up new friends at every destination. With a trip to South America slated for the fall, Suma has a plan to learn to speak Spanish more confidently in time for her next big solo-travel adventure to Argentina.
Raise a glass We think celebratory phrases are like champagne: Always good to have on hand in case something happens worth toasting. Maybe you got a promotion. Maybe you’ve met The One. Or maybe you finally remembered to drink water…
What better time to get a jolt of motivation than now, when resolutions seem far less attractive than happy hour or catching up on Black Mirror? Below you’ll find loose translations for how to say, “You can do it” in…
New Delhi, India After three plane rides, around 48 hours of cumulative travel, and some suspicious-looking curry on my flight, I finally stumbled into the Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport around noon. As I soaked in the heat and swatted…
