Discover the dictionary that allows native speakers to share and explain the words and expressions that make their language unique.
Not everything is said with just a translation. Created by linguists, Untranslatable is a dictionary that uses crowdsourcing and sociolinguistic principles to gain a better understanding of language.
Untranslatable is an online dictionary that allows you to add words and phrases in any language or dialect. Here is what makes us unique.
Find out not just what something means, but who uses it, where, and how often, along with an example and translation.
Each entry includes a link to an example, is seen by a moderator and can be verified by other users.
We love informal language, regional dialects, minority languages and other forms of language that are often overlooked.
Interjection used often by Almost Everyone
A common exclamation in the northern United States. The term originates from Norway and is thought to be brought to the states by Scandinavian immigrants in the 19th century. Used in cases of surprise, shock, or relief. Also commonly used as a sympathetic response to hearing slightly unfortunate news.
"Make sure you wrap up nice n' warm today; it's a cold one out there." "Uff-da, it sure is!"
From local slang to national idioms - find entries from all over the world.
By allowing entries in all languages and dialects, we hope to help preserve and promote linguistic diversity, especially for linguistic varieties that are otherwise often underdocumented or overlooked.
Not at all!
The name of this project refers not to the translatability of the words, but rather the additional context you are able to provide.
Stuff that doesn't strictly fall under translation, but still helps provide context about how, where and how often words are used.
Here are some of the things you can do.