U.
HomeRegionsLanguagesEmotionsCollections
Find Your Word

“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.”

— Ludwig Wittgenstein, Philosopher

Untranslatable

A curated collection of the world's most beautiful expressions—words that remind us language is humanity's greatest invention.

  • Home
  • Collections
  • Regions
  • Countries
  • Emotions
  • Tags
  • Contexts
  • Finder
  • Europe
  • Asia
  • Americas
  • Africa
  • Middle East
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

2026 © Untranslatable. All rights reserved.

    /
    1. Home
    2. /
    3. Contexts
    4. /
    5. Work
    📍

    Work

    For work moments

    Words used in work situations.

    683 phrases for work contexts

    • Vietnamese

      Liêm sỉ

      /LIEM SEE/

      Liêm sỉ is the intrinsic moral compass that steers an individual's conduct, embodying a profound sense of self-respect, honor, and a keen awareness of social decorum. It's the internal guardian ensuring one's actions align with deeply ingrained ethical principles, safeguarding personal dignity and the collective reputation of family and community. To possess liêm sỉ is to live with integrity, while its absence signifies a shameful disregard for these fundamental values, leading to significant social disapproval.

      Lit. Integrity/Shame

      Used to describe someone's sense of personal integrity, honor, or shame, often in the context of their actions and how they reflect on themselves and their community.

      Vietnam
      belonging
    • Vietnamese

      Xe ôm

      /say ohm/

      Xe ôm, literally "motorcycle hug," is the ubiquitous Vietnamese term for a motorcycle taxi, an essential artery in the nation's bustling urban landscape. It signifies more than just a ride; it embodies a dynamic, often informal service that swiftly navigates passengers through labyrinthine streets, offering a responsive solution to daily commutes and urgent errands. The term evokes the intimate proximity between driver and passenger, a familiar roar of engines, and the immediate availability that defines urban mobility for millions.

      Lit. Motorcycle hug

      Used to refer to a motorcycle taxi service, where a driver (usually male) offers rides to passengers, typically carrying them on the back of their motorbike.

      Vietnam
      belonging
    • Vietnamese

      Sống ảo

      /song ah-o/

      Sống ảo vividly captures the modern phenomenon of individuals meticulously crafting and presenting an idealized, often embellished, version of themselves within the digital realm, particularly on social media. It signifies a lifestyle where one's online persona becomes paramount, frequently overshadowing or even supplanting their authentic offline existence. This term encapsulates the seductive allure of curated reality, where the boundaries between genuine selfhood and digital performance blur, leading to a profound investment in an illusory online life.

      Lit. Live illusion/virtual

      Used to describe individuals who primarily live their lives online, presenting a curated and often unrealistic version of themselves on social media platforms. It can be used critically or descriptively.

      Vietnam
      bittersweet
    • Vietnamese

      Kiên trì

      /kee-en CHEE/

      Kiên trì embodies a deep-seated perseverance and unwavering dedication, extending beyond simple patience. It speaks to a persistent effort and resilience in the face of adversity, a steadfast commitment to a goal or principle even when progress is slow or difficult. This concept is woven into the fabric of Vietnamese culture, emphasizing the strength found in enduring hardship and the virtue of seeing tasks through to completion. It's about maintaining a strong will and a focused mind, refusing to be deterred by obstacles, and understanding that true success often comes from sustained effort.

      Lit. Patient/Persistent/Enduring

      Used to describe someone who is persistent, patient, and determined in achieving their goals, whether in work, study, or personal endeavors.

      Vietnam
      contentment
    • Vietnamese

      Sáng tạo

      /SAHNG-tah-oh/

      Sáng tạo transcends mere 'creativity' to embody a profound act of bringing something genuinely novel into existence, often born from necessity or a keen desire to improve. It's the spark of ingenuity that envisions and then materializes solutions, designs, or artistic expressions previously unimagined. This concept celebrates the human spirit's capacity to innovate, not just for aesthetic pleasure, but for tangible impact, fostering a culture that deeply values fresh perspectives and transformative ideas across all facets of life.

      Lit. Create/Invent/Innovate

      Used to describe the act or quality of being creative, innovative, or inventive. It applies to artistic endeavors, scientific discoveries, problem-solving, and any situation where new ideas are generated.

      Vietnam
      hope
    • Vietnamese

      Đam mê

      /DAH-meh/

      Đam mê encapsulates a profound and all-consuming passion, a deep-seated love for something that drives one's actions and defines their existence. It's more than just a fleeting interest; it's a fervent dedication that fuels the spirit and provides an unwavering sense of purpose, often leading to a state of complete absorption where time seems to vanish. This intense emotional and intellectual engagement signifies a life lived with heart and soul, deeply invested in what brings one true joy and meaning, transforming mere activity into a profound calling. It's the inner fire that compels continuous pursuit and mastery.

      Lit. Passion / Enthusiasm

      Used to describe a strong passion, love, or enthusiasm for an activity, subject, or cause.

      Vietnam
      gratitude
    • Vietnamese

      Độc đáo

      /DOHK-doh-ah-oh/

      Độc đáo transcends mere uniqueness, describing something profoundly original and singularly exceptional. It signifies an inherent, almost divinely inspired distinctiveness that sets an entity apart, not just from the mundane but even from other rare things. This quality evokes deep admiration and respect, celebrating a level of ingenuity and individual spirit that is truly one-of-a-kind and often considered irreplaceable. It's a recognition of a singular essence that resonates deeply within Vietnamese aesthetics and values.

      Lit. Unique/Original

      Used to describe anything that is unique, original, novel, or distinctive, from a piece of art or a design to an idea or a person's character.

      Vietnam
      gratitude
    • Vietnamese

      Nón lá

      /NON lah/

      Nón lá, literally 'leaf hat,' is far more than just a simple head covering in Vietnam; it's a symbol of Vietnamese culture, resilience, and everyday life. Traditionally made from palm leaves or other natural materials, these conical hats are practical tools shielding wearers from the intense sun and heavy rains prevalent in the tropical climate. Beyond their utility, they carry deep cultural significance, often associated with rural beauty, farmers, and the nation's enduring spirit. The nón lá is an iconic representation of Vietnamese identity, instantly recognizable and deeply woven into the fabric of society.

      Lit. leaf hat

      The nón lá is worn by people of all ages and genders, especially in rural areas and by farmers, vendors, and students. It is used daily for protection against the elements and is also a popular souvenir and symbol of Vietnam.

      Vietnam
      belonging
    • Thai

      จริต (ja rit)

      /JA-rit/

      Jarit encapsulates a person's entire presentation to the world – their distinctive mannerisms, habitual behaviors, and underlying disposition. It's not merely about actions, but the inherent quality and perceived authenticity behind them, shaping how an individual's character and social grace are received. A "good jarit" suggests elegance and sincerity, while a "bad jarit" can imply affectation, arrogance, or insensitivity, profoundly impacting one's social standing and reputation within Thai society.

      Lit. manners, disposition

      Used to describe a person's general demeanor, attitude, and how they present themselves to others, often implying a judgment on their character or social grace. It can be used in everyday conversation to comment on someone's behavior or personality.

      Thailand
      comfort
    • Vietnamese

      Áo dài

      /OW-ZAI/

      The Áo dài is Vietnam's quintessential national attire, a gracefully flowing tunic worn over trousers that epitomizes elegance, modesty, and feminine allure. It is a powerful symbol of Vietnamese national pride and beauty, seamlessly blending tradition with a timeless aesthetic. More than mere clothing, it embodies the spirit and identity of the Vietnamese people, evoking deep cultural belonging and a profound sense of heritage. Its silhouette subtly enhances the wearer's form while maintaining an air of sophisticated grace.

      Lit. long shirt

      Worn by women and sometimes men on special occasions like weddings, Tết (Lunar New Year), graduations, and performances. It is also worn by flight attendants and students in some schools.

      Vietnam
      belonging
    • Thai

      Guea goon

      /GAY-uh-GOON/

      Guea goon encapsulates the vibrant spirit of mutual upliftment and collective flourishing within Thai society. It's more than just aiding; it's a heartfelt pact to actively encourage, inspire, and support one another, ensuring that no one is left behind. This concept fosters a dynamic cycle where individual successes are celebrated as communal achievements, cementing bonds and propelling shared progress. It paints a picture of a community moving forward, hand-in-hand, driven by a genuine desire for everyone's well-being.

      Lit. To help/support each other

      Used to describe the act of supporting, helping, or encouraging others, often in a collective or community context, emphasizing mutual assistance and shared progress.

      Thailand
      belonging
    • Thai

      Yim soo

      /YIM SOO/

      The Thai phrase "yim soo" encapsulates a profound spirit of resilience and optimistic defiance in the face of adversity. It's far more than a simple polite smile; it represents a conscious, often weary, choice to confront life's challenges with an outwardly positive demeanor. This expression reflects a deep-seated cultural value of maintaining composure, inner fortitude, and a refusal to be completely overcome by hardship, signaling a determined perseverance beneath the surface.

      Lit. smile fight

      Used to describe someone facing a difficult situation with a smile, indicating bravery and perseverance. It can be said to encourage someone or acknowledge their strength.

      Thailand
      bittersweet
    • Previous
    • 1
    • More pages
    • 35
    • 36
    • 37
    • More pages
    • 57
    • Next