All phrases by Annelise Dubois

Amour-propre refers to a sense of self-esteem, pride, or dignity that is derived from how one perceives themselves and how they believe they are perceived by others. It's a complex concept that can encompass vanity, self-respect, and a desire for social recognition.

Apnikums describes a profound, creeping weariness and subtle irritation that accumulates from persistent, often minor, annoyances. It's not the sudden anger of being bothered, but rather a slow erosion of patience and mental energy, leaving one feeling drained and fed up. This state signifies a deep-seated mental fatigue stemming from a continuous, low-level nuisance, making even simple tasks feel burdensome and dampening one's overall mood and capacity for tolerance.

Bienveillance refers to a disposition to do good, a kindly attitude, or goodwill towards others. It implies a genuine wish for the well-being and happiness of another person, often accompanied by acts of kindness or support.

To sulk or pout, typically in a childish or petulant way, often as a passive-aggressive response to perceived slights or disappointments. It implies a silent, moody withdrawal rather than an open expression of anger.

The term 'bre' is a highly informal, interjection-like word used primarily among male friends in Serbia, often translating loosely to 'man,' 'dude,' or 'bro.' It signifies a close, familiar bond and is employed in casual conversation to grab attention, express agreement, or punctuate a statement. Its usage is deeply rooted in Serbian male camaraderie, embodying a sense of shared experience and relaxed solidarity. The word's untranslatability stems from its specific cultural context and the casual intimacy it conveys, which is difficult to capture with a single English equivalent.

Békebeli describes a cherished, nostalgic longing for the pre-World War I era in Hungary, often romanticized as the 'Golden Age' of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It evokes a world of perceived stability, genteel manners, traditional values, and a slower pace of life, now irrevocably lost. More than mere historical recall, 'békebeli' carries a bittersweet warmth, a yearning for the tangible atmosphere and intangible spirit of a past seen through rose-tinted glasses, deeply intertwined with national identity and a sense of bygone grandeur.

Búsulni describes a deep, introspective melancholy that is not despair but a quiet, brooding sadness, often tinged with resignation. It's a mood where one allows themselves to sink into reflective contemplation, acknowledging life's inevitable hardships and losses without succumbing to active grief. This state is frequently experienced in solitude, offering a peculiar, almost comforting acceptance of sorrow as a shared human experience, a gentle withdrawal into one's inner world to process profound emotions.