When it comes to describing the nuances of love, the English language sometimes falls short. If you ever find yourself struggling to find the right word to express your feelings, you could always borrow one of these 30 foreign terms that capture the highs and lows of romance.
1. Forelsket (Norwegian/Danish)
In both Norwegian and Danish, “forelsket” refers to the euphoric feeling of falling in love. This word perfectly captures the excitement and joy of a new romance.
2. Koi no Yokan (Japanese)
The Japanese phrase “koi no yokan” describes the feeling upon first meeting someone that you will inevitably fall in love with them. It’s a premonition of love, a sense that fate has a hand in your connection.
3. Ittuaqtuinnaqtuq (Inuktitut)
“Ittuaqtuinnaqtuq” is an Inuktitut word that describes the act of repeatedly looking outside to see if anyone is coming. This term captures the anxious anticipation of waiting for a loved one.
4. Cavoli riscaldati (Italian)
The Italian phrase “cavoli riscaldati” literally means “reheated cabbage,” referring to an attempt to revive an old romantic relationship. It conveys the futility often felt in trying to rekindle past love.
5. Kara Sevda (Turkish)
“Kara sevda” translates literally to “black love” and alludes to how uncontrollable desire and unrequited love can render someone hopeless and broken. It’s a deep, consuming love that can be both beautiful and painful.
6. Kilig (Tagalog)
You can use “kilig” as a noun or adjective to describe the elation that follows a romantic or exciting experience. It’s that giddy, butterflies-in-your-stomach sensation that comes with new love.
7. Cafuné (Brazilian Portuguese)
In Brazilian Portuguese, “cafuné” describes the act of running your fingers through someone’s hair. This word captures a tender, intimate gesture that signifies closeness and affection.
8. Flechazo (Spanish)
“Flechazo” means literally “bowshot” or “arrow wound,” used figuratively to speak of love at first sight. It conveys the sudden, striking impact of falling in love right away.
9. Ya’aburnee (Arabic)
The phrase “Ya’aburnee,” meaning “you bury me,” expresses the hope that the person you love will outlive you, sparing you the agony of living without them. It’s a poignant expression of deep love and devotion.
10. Oodal (Tamil)
“Oodal” means the fake anger lovers display after a tiff. This playful, teasing anger is a common part of romantic relationships, often leading to sweet reconciliations.
11. Odnoliub (Russian)
“Odnoliub” refers to someone with only one love in their life. This word conveys the idea of a lifelong, unwavering love for a single person.
12. Tiam (Farsi)
“Tiam” means “the twinkle in your eye when you first meet someone.” This term beautifully captures the spark and excitement of encountering someone who instantly fascinates you.
13. Manabamáte (Rapa Nui)
“Manabamáte” is a Rapa Nui term for the loss of appetite that comes with falling in love. It describes the physical manifestations of deep emotional attachment.
14. Yuanfen (Chinese)
“Yuanfen” refers to fate, chance, or binding force that brings people or objects together. It conveys the notion that certain relationships have a predetermined destiny.
15. Dor (Romanian)
“Dor” translates to “longing,” and describes a yearning for people or places of the past, or homesickness. It’s a deep, often bittersweet, desire for something lost.
16. Queesting (Dutch)
“Queesting” means to allow a lover access to one’s bed for chitchat. This intimate, cozy term speaks to the closeness and comfort of spending time with a loved one.
17. Mamihlapinatapei (Yagán)
“Mamihlapinatapei” refers to a look between people that expresses an unspoken but mutual desire. This word captures the silent communication and understanding that can exist between two people in love.
18. Viraha (Hindi)
“Viraha” describes the realization of love through separation. It’s the understanding and deepening of feelings that often occurs when lovers are apart.
19. La douleur exquise (French)
“La douleur exquise” gets at the emotional heartache, specifically, of being the one whose love is unreciprocated. It’s the exquisite pain of loving someone who doesn’t return your feelings.
20. Saudade (Portuguese)
“Saudade” can refer to the feeling of longing for a lost love. It encompasses a melancholy nostalgia for something that perhaps has not even happened, a blend of hope, longing, and sadness.
21. Meraki (Greek)
“Meraki” means to do something with soul, creativity, or love. It describes the act of putting part of yourself into what you’re doing, often used to refer to activities done with passion and love.
22. Retrouvailles (French)
“Retrouvailles” refers to the joy of reuniting with someone after a long separation. It captures the happiness and relief felt when reconnecting with a loved one.
23. Lítost (Czech)
“Lítost” is a state of agony and torment created by the sudden sight of one’s own misery. It’s often associated with the emotional pain of seeing a loved one suffer.
24. Cwtch (Welsh)
“Cwtch” is a Welsh word that means a hug that is more than a hug. It’s a safe place given by someone’s love, offering comfort and warmth.
25. Gezelligheid (Dutch)
“Gezelligheid” describes the warm, cozy, and friendly feeling you get when you’re with loved ones. It’s the sense of belonging and togetherness that brings joy and comfort.
26. Firgun (Hebrew)
“Firgun” is the act of sharing in or even contributing to someone else’s pleasure or fortune out of genuine, unselfish love. It’s the opposite of envy, reflecting a pure and sincere happiness for another’s success.
27. Sobremesa (Spanish)
“Sobremesa” refers to the time spent lingering at the table after a meal, enjoying conversation and bonding with loved ones. It’s a cherished moment of connection and intimacy.
28. Abbiocco (Italian)
“Abbiocco” is the drowsiness or contented lethargy one feels after eating a large meal. It’s often experienced with loved ones during a shared, hearty meal, reflecting a moment of communal satisfaction.
29. Uitwaaien (Dutch)
“Uitwaaien” describes the act of going out to take a break and refresh oneself, often involving a walk in the wind. It’s a way to clear the mind and feel rejuvenated, often shared with a partner.
30. Komorebi (Japanese)
“Komorebi” refers to the sunlight that filters through the leaves of trees. It’s a poetic term that captures the beauty and tranquility of nature, often enjoyed in a romantic setting with a loved one.
These words from around the world provide a richer vocabulary for expressing the many facets of love. Whether it’s the first flutter of attraction, the deep bonds of long-term love, or the pain of unrequited affection, these terms offer a glimpse into the universal experience of romance.
