This is what 'untranslatable' words tell us about English speakers

Aug 13, 2018

A photo illustration shows a 2nd edition copy of The Macquarie Concise Dictionary, the authority on the English language in Australia, on a coffee table in Sydney October 17, 2012. A fiery speech against sexism by Australia's first female Prime Minister Julia Gillard has prompted the textbook of Australian English to redefine the word "misogyny" to better fit the heated political debate raging downunder. REUTERS/Tim Wimborne (AUSTRALIA - Tags: POLITICS SOCIETY)

Where we get our words from tells us something about our history. Image: REUTERS/Tim Wimborne

Laura Bailey

Science Writer, University of Michigan

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