English speakers tend to be very proud of their language. This is the case on both sides of the Atlantic; Americans love “talking American,” and Brits nobly speak “the Queen’s English.” What they tend to overlook, however, is just how many words and phrases have been pinched from other languages. Some of the most eloquent ideas and abstract concepts can only be described through foreign loanwords.
Latin Love
Bona fide
Here's a Latin phrase that directly translates to English as “in good faith.” In English it means “genuine,” which is similar to how our Ancient Roman friends would have used the phrase.
Ad nauseam
This is another Latin phrase that has snuck into English. It’s the same “naus” that’s in “nausea.” Literally translated, it means “to seasickness.” You can use it to mean “to a sickening degree.”
Fun With French
En route
This is a sneaky one — a French phrase that many users may think is pure English. With the same pronunciation and literal meaning as “on route,” it’s an easy mistake to make when you're hurrying to get somewhere.
Laissez-faire
Use this particularly elegant way of saying “hands off.” It's another phrase borrowed from French, and it translates to “allow to do.”
German Gems
Schadenfreude
German has so many words for all variety of moods, feelings, and situations. There's not a comparable English word for schadenfreude, which refers to taking enjoyment from the misfortune of enemies.
Zeitgeist
In German, zeit means "time" and geist means "spirit." Putting these two together, we have "zeitgeist," which is an abstract but fascinating concept. It refers to the cultural and intellectual climate of a specific point in time, giving a unique snapshot of society in that moment.
European Extras
Aficionado
In English, this means "a devoted fan." Literally translated from Spanish, however, it is “an amateur.” But this still makes some sense, as most fans tend to be amateurs relative to their heroes.
Prima donna
The first Italian contribution on the list, prima donna translates directly to “first woman.” It’s an opera term for the main female singer, but in English it's used more sarcastically, as it refers to someone who considers themselves very important, but probably isn’t.
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