Language is a fascinating reflection of society’s influences throughout history. While we deem the language we use in Britain ‘English’, many of the words and phrases we use every day actually originate from elsewhere in the world.
More English Borrowed Words
Have a look at ‘borrowed words’ from around the world below and see how many you would have guessed right.
1. Faux Pas
Definition: Making a social mistake
Origin: French
Translation: False step
2. Renaissance
- Renaissance Period – Between 1300 and 1600 when art and science developed a lot.
- The re-popularity of a person, company, country, drink, etc.
Origin: French
Translation: Rebirth
3. Glitch
Definition: A small problem
Origin: Yiddish / German
Translation: To slip / slide
4. Klutz
Definition: A person who is very uncoordinated or clumsy
Origin: Yiddish
Translation: A wooden block
5. Spiel
Definition: A speech or story, often with the intention of persuasion
Origin: Yiddish / German
Translation: Play
6. Guerrilla
Definition: Using unusual methods to get attention for your ideas, products, etc.
Origin: Spanish
Translation: Little war
7. Al Fresco
Definition: Undertaking an activity outdoors
Origin: Italian
Translation: In the fresh air
8. Gung-ho
Definition: To undertake something with a great deal of enthusiasm
Origin: Chinese
Translation: To work together
9. Déjà Vu
Definition: Feeling that the moment has happened before
Origin: French
Translation: Already seen
10. Curriculum Vitae
Definition: Record of academic and work experience, used when applying for a job
Origin: Latin
Translation: Course of life
11. Status Quo
Definition: The existing situation or condition
Origin: Latin
Translation: The state in which
12. Metropolis
Definition: A big city of high importance
Origin: Greek
Translation: The mother city of a colony
13. Prima Donna
Definition: A temperamental and conceited person
Origin: Italian
Translation: First woman; principal female soloist in opera
14. Ketchup
Definition: Tomato-based condiment
Origin: Chinese
Translation: Pickled fish and spices
15. Bona Fide
Definition: Genuine, authentic
Origin: Latin
Translation: In good faith
Learn more about other languages, with our list of pet names from around the world.
Can you think of any other ‘borrowed words’? Let us know in the comments below.
Main image: Waldemar Brandt – Unsplash
