Definition

Something that cannot be translated into another language or form.

Example

Some phrases are untranslatable because they carry cultural meanings that don't exist in other languages.

Conversation

I came across a word in Spanish that seems completely untranslatable.

Really? What does it mean?

It describes a feeling of nostalgia for a time you never experienced.

Wow, that's fascinating! Some emotions are hard to express in any language.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Untranslatable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "translatus" (from Latin "transferre", meaning to carry across) and the suffix "-able" (meaning capable of). The word describes something that is not capable of being carried across in meaning, hence cannot be translated.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('un-') able to be 'carried across' ('translatus') in meaning — that's why it is untranslatable.

Visually Confused Words