At NaTakallam, we connect you with talented language tutors from around the world, offering not just top-quality online language learning but also deep cultural insights. In this letter, Marije, a NaTakallam Language Partner, welcomes you into the heart of Venezuela, inviting you to learn Spanish along the way. Dive into her story and discover how learning Spanish online opens doors to new cultural perspectives and connections.
I come from a place where the yellow of the sun is as beautiful as the gold that we mined.
I come from a place where the blue of the sky is as beautiful as blue as of the beaches of our coast.
I come from a place where your friend’s children are your nephews and nieces; a place where every time you enter and leave the room you ask for your parents’ blessing.
I come from a place where every time you pass in front of a church you make the signs of the cross.
The Land of Joy and Happiness
Even on bad days, here you can find joy in people.
This is a land of joy and happiness.
Where we have the nicest climate – the eternal summer as I call it.
Marije, Spanish Language Partner with NaTakallam since 2019
The Emotional Power of a Single Word
One of the nicest words that we have in Venezuela is naguará (nawara); an expression packed with emotion. Naguará means a lot of things. It can be used in an exciting situation, a sad situation or an angry one. When you see the El Salto Ángel or you’re exhausted from hiking the Tepuys or your favorite football team is losing: “naguará, wow”. Its meaning depends on the tone of your voice or the context of the conversation. It is a word widely used in the regional dialects at the center and on the coast of the country.
Venezuela is a place, with a people, a language, and a culture I want to share. Working with NaTakallam has given me the opportunity to meet people all around the world. I’m able to teach my students the great things about my country and my culture; my language is a blessing.
Connection Made Possible Through Language
When I share with my students, I realize that they can identify with me. When they learn Spanish and the deeper meaning behind the linguistics, they become more familiar with my language and culture, even when they’re in their own countries. I see them seek out new experiences, like trying out a Venezuelan restaurant to discover more and taste our food.
I think I cannot explain in words how excited and happy I feel about what it means to me, to be able to touch my students’ hearts and make them love my language and identity. To listen to them using the expression naguará to tell a story of their own is an amazing feeling. In every “naguará” spoken, my language and culture come alive, bridging the gap between worlds, and reminding us that joy, identity, and connection know no borders.
This post is part of the “Letters from our Language Partners” series, where NaTakallam LanguagePartners share their unique stories, cultures and experiences through the lens of language learning and connection. Want to immerse yourself in a new culture or learn a new language from native speakers? Book a session with one of NaTakallam’s expert tutors and connect with a community that brings language and culture to life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Marije, a 40-year-old economist and mother of two, transitioned from her career to motherhood in Venezuela before moving to Bogotá, Colombia, where she became a Spanish Language Partner with NaTakallam. Now back in Venezuela, she advocates for empathy, shaped by her experiences as an immigrant.
The final days of August and the approaching end of summer give us all the more reason to savor the remaining warm days with a refreshing drink in hand! Why not take your seasonal sips a step further with NaTakallam? Explore our favorite summer drinks from the Middle East to Latin America and around the world! Each beverage tells a story of history, culture, and the unique flavors of its homeland. So even as your summer travels wind down, let’s take a delicious journey across the globe, one drink at a time!
1. Jallab
Jallab (Arabic: جلاب) is a beloved summer drink across the Levant – that’s Syria, Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan. With a distinct floral aroma, this refreshing beverage is made from dates, grape molasses, and rose water, a perfect combination for hot summer days. It’s often served with crushed ice, pine nuts and raisins, and also used to add flavor to ice-cream and yogurt!
Jallab is enjoyed year-round but it also a staple for rehydration during Ramadan.
Ingredients (1 serving): 2 cups cold water 1 ½ tablespoon date syrup 1 ½ tablespoon grape molasses 1 teaspoon rose water Pine nuts (optional) Golden raisins (optional) Crushed ice (optional)
Recipe: Mix the date syrup and grape molasses with rose water. Add the cold water and stir well. Pour into glasses over crushed ice. Garnish with pine nuts and raisins for a traditional touch. Serve immediately to enjoy chilled.
Summer is synonymous with seasonal fruits, including our favorite: oranges. Made with the juice of Seville oranges (also known as bitter oranges or sour oranges), Sharab al-Busfeyr literally means “the drink of Seville oranges” in Arabic, and offers a sweet and slightly tart way to cool off as we bid farewell to summer.
Around the Arab world, bitter oranges are harvested in the late winter / early spring season. To enjoy this fruit longer, locals preserve it in this syrup form to savor throughout the summer months. In this way, Sharab al-Busfeyr is a seasonal delight that connects people to their land and its fruits.
Ingredients (4 servings): 2 pounds Seville oranges Sugar (in equal weight to the orange juice)
Recipe: Firstly, juice the oranges, and then add in an equal weight amount of sugar. Stir the sugar and juice together and repeat frequently throughout the day until the sugar is fully dissolved. You can also use a blender for this process. Do not add any water to the mixture. Once the sugar is dissolved, transfer the syrup into a clean bottle. It is best kept in the fridge to increase its shelf-life to one year.
To drink, mix ¼ part syrup to ¾ parts water – serve with ice if desired!
Jus de Bissap, literally “hibiscus juice,” is actually an infusion made of dried Roselle Hibiscus flowers, which are commonly sold in markets across many African countries, from Senegal and Ghana to Egypt and Sudan (where the drink is more commonly known as “كركديه” karkadeh in Arabic). Following migration patterns, Bissap and other hibiscus drinks are also popular in many Caribbean countries.
This vibrant red drink is tangy and sweet, often enjoyed cold to combat the intense heat. Bissap is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of hospitality and is often served at celebrations and gatherings.
Ingredients (6 servings): 2 cups dried hibiscus flowers 1 ½ cups sugar (increase or reduce according to taste) 1 teaspoon orange blossom water Mint leaves (optional)
Recipe: Boil the hibiscus flowers in water for 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and stir in the sugar and orange blossom water until dissolved. Allow it to cool, then refrigerate. Serve over ice, with mint leaves for an extra refreshing touch.
Ayran is a traditional yogurt-based drink popular amongst Kurdish, Persian, Turkish and more communities spanning from Central Asia to Eastern Europe. This simple yet refreshing beverage is made by mixing yogurt with water and salt, resulting in a hydrating drink perfect for the hottest of summer days. Containing a healthy dose of protein and electrolytes, Ayran is enjoyed both with meals and as a stand-alone drink to quench your thirst.
Ingredients (1 serving): 1 cup plain, whole milk, strained yogurt ½ cup cold water A pinch of salt Mint leaves (optional) Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe: Mix the yogurt with water and a pinch of salt. Shake vigorously to make it as frothy as possible. Pour into a glass over ice cubes if desired. Garnish with mint leaves, and serve chilled for a cooling and nutritious drink.
Now that your glass is (hopefully) full (with Ayran), explore the many flavors, dialects and scripts of the Kurdish language with NaTakallam’s native Language Partners!
5. Doogh
Doogh is a Persian yogurt-based drink similar to Ayran, but unlike Ayran, Doogh is fermented, often carbonated, and can also be infused with additional herbs and flavorings (e.g. mint, dried rose petals, ground black pepper). Known for its cooling properties and as a source of probiotics, it is often paired with kebabs and other rich dishes that have a naturally “heaty” profile (from the use of earthy spices in local food).
While the recipe below offers a simple way to prepare Doogh today, the traditional method of preparation takes multiple days! First, milk and yogurt are mixed in a specific ratio until smooth. This mixture is gently heated until uniformly warm, then salt is stirred in, and the mixture is placed in a closed container to ferment for 3-4 days. It is this fermentation process that gives Doogh its natural savory flavor and fizz!
Ingredients (4 servings): 2 cups plain, whole milk yogurt 2 cups sparkling water ½ cup mint leaves 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon dried rose petals (optional) Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe: Blend the yogurt, mint leaves, salt and rose petals in a blender. Pour in club soda and mix with a wooden spoon, scraping down sides of the blender, until everything is incorporated. Serve Doogh in iced-filled glasses, garnished with mint if desired.
If you’re inspired by these Persian flavors, discover more about the colorful culture through its language. Start learning Persian with NaTakallam’s tutors and uncover the stories behind drinks like Doogh and more.
6. Papelón con Limón
Papelón con Limón is one of the oldest and most popular beverages in Venezuela! Simply made from unrefined sugar cane (also known as “piloncillo” or “panela” in Spanish), lime juice and water, Papelón con Limón is an easy and tasty way to freshen up on a summer day.
Ingredients (4 servings): 8 ounces papelón (unrefined cane sugar) ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice 4 cups hot water 4 cups cold water Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe: Pour hot water over the unrefined cane sugar. After it has dissolved and cooled off, add the lime juice and cold water, and stir well. Serve with ice cubes. ¡Salud!
As far back as the 18th century, Papelón con Limón was a favorite among field workers for its high nutritional value. This now-classic drink won over the love of successive generations, and is a part of the heart and soul of Venezuelan culinary culture, offering a glimpse into the history and indigenous flavors of the region. Learn more about the rhythms of Venezuelan life through learning Spanish with NaTakallam’s native-speaking tutors.
7. Agua de Limón con Chia
Long before chia seeds became a health trend, they were a staple food for the Mayans and Aztecs. Agua de Limón con Chia is lime juice with chia seeds, which swell in water to create a cooling, slightly gelatinous texture. A perfect thirst-quencher on hot summer days!
Ingredients (5 servings): 3 large limes ¼ cup chia seeds 4 cups water ½ cup sugar (increase or decrease according to taste) Ice cubes (optional)
Recipe: Pre-soak the chia seeds in 2 cups of water until gelatinous. Squeeze the juice from the limes into a pitcher, and whisk in the soaked chia seeds, remaining water, and sugar to taste. Stir well and serve over ice cubes if desired.
Kompot is a traditional drink in Eastern Europe, made by simmering fresh or dried fruits with sugar. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, but in the summer, it’s served chilled, offering a sweet and fruity refreshment. A staple in Slavic households, Kompot is often prepared in large batches and enjoyed throughout the day.
Recipe: Combine the fruits and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the sugar. Allow the compote to cool for a minimum of 2 hours (or maximum overnight in the fridge). As it cools, the flavors will infuse and intensify. You can then serve chilled, choosing whether or not to strain the fruits! (Strained fruits can be cooked to purées.)
The Kompot drink is related to the broader European concept of fruit “compote,” which is French for “stewed fruit.” This beverage is designed to use any surplus of summer fruit, as well as fruit that may be bruised or overripe, reflecting the creativity of local communities to ensure no food is wasted! Gain insight to native Slavic practices when you connect with NaTakallam’s bilingual Ukrainian–Russian Language Partners.
From the tangy kick of Jallab to the sweet comfort of Kompot, each sip of these summer drinks offers a delicious glimpse into diverse cultures, rich histories and communal traditions. Why not take your cultural exploration one step further? Sign up for NaTakallam’s language sessions today and connect with the communities that make these drinks so special!
We know you want to go beyond Dora-level greetings (no shade to her, she’s an icon!) so here are some ways to expand how you can start a conversation like a local. In case you are exploring different languages for study, check out our “saying hello” series in French, Russian, and Persian!
Learn 14 ways to greet someone in Spanish and use more natural expressions for your next Spanish class or meetup with a Spanish-speaking friend.
Want to dive deeper? Book a session for free with our language partners affected by displacement and get to know the culture, context, and histories behind these expressions.
You probably think you know how to greet someone in Spanish. But this language has traveled across continents and evolved along the way, so forget what you learned in freshman year – we’re about to show you all the coolest ways to say hello in Spanish from across the Hispanic world!
1. Hola – across the Spanish-speaking worldOkay, yes, we’re starting with the basics: the one and only infamous hola. Its literal meaning is simply “hello” or “hi.” The good thing about this phrase is that it’s very neutral on the formality scale, meaning it can be used in almost every situation. Hola is used during any time of day and can be repeated back in response.
2. Pura vida – Costa RicaPura vida broken down translates to “pure life,” and in Costa Rica it is another way of saying “hello.” Although this is quite a casual phrase, it has very friendly connotations, so you can hear it used by everyone on the streets. An appropriate response would be to repeat pura vida back. Do note that this term is very versatile and can, for instance, be used when saying “goodbye” or replying to “How are you?” (assuming you want to answer by saying that “All is well”!)
3. Bueno – MexicoIn Spanish, bueno translates to “good,” but in this context, it is a greeting used over the phone in Mexico to mean “hello.” However, do keep in mind that this is used in a more casual scenario, when answering a call from a friend, family member or someone close to you. Bueno can then be repeated back by the caller.
4. Buenas – across the Spanish-speaking worldBuenas is a shortened form of the three phrases buenos días, buenas tardes and buenas noches. Respectively, they all mean “good morning,” “good afternoon” and “good evening.” Buenas is a lot less formal. When greeted with this phrase, you can respond by repeating it back, or by simply saying hola.
5. Épale – VenezuelaExclusive to Venezuela, épale is a very informal way of greeting between people of all ages (from little kids all the way up to adults), meaning “Hi!” or “What’s up?” This can be used at any time of day and the response is usually the same or, much like buenas, can be hola.
6. ¿Qué tal? – across the Spanish-speaking worldWhile it’s familiar to most as “How are you?” ¿Qué tal? is very versatile in its meaning depending on the situation. It can be used as an informal greeting amongst friends and family, similar to the English “What’s up?” And as for the reply, our conversational language partners can teach you the ways to express yourself like a native in Spanish.
7. Buenos días / Buenas tardes / Buenas noches – across the Spanish-speaking worldAs previously mentioned earlier in the article, these phrases translate respectively to “good morning,” “good afternoon” and “good evening.” They are slightly more formal ways of greeting someone.
Regardless of its literal meaning, buenos días or “good day” is used strictly in the morning – though the morning is often considered to last until 2 pm! Buenas tardes is then used until late afternoon. Buenas noches means “good night,” but it can be used to greet someone after sunset.
8. ¿Qué onda? – across Latin AmericaLiterally translated, ¿Qué onda? means, “What wave?” However, the closest English alternative would be “What’s up?” or perhaps, “What’s the vibe?” This is quite informal and is mainly used between friends. On certain occasions, ¿Qué onda? can be used simply as a greeting, without expecting a direct answer. In that case, when greeted with ¿Qué onda?, you can repeat it back, and add on a ¿Cómo estás? (meaning “How are you?”).
9. Quihubo / Quiubo – across Latin AmericaQuihubo or quiubo are both a contraction of ¿Qué hubo?, meaning figuratively, “How are you doing?” or “How’s it going?” They are informal greetings, and we only recommend using them in casual conversation between friends and family. There are many ways to respond to quihubo; in Mexico in particular, it is commonplace not to repeat this greeting back. Phrases such as ¿Qué onda? can be applied instead.
10. ¿Qué bolá? – CubaWhile many of the phrases you will see in this post can be used in a variety of Spanish-speaking countries, ¿Qué bolá? is specific to Cuba. Due to the identical pronunciation of ‘b’ and ‘v’ in Spanish, bola and vola (the original word) can be used interchangeably in this greeting. Vola comes from the word volar, meaning “to fly” – so the literal translation of ¿Qué bolá? is, therefore, “How does it fly?” However, this informal greeting is in fact an equivalent of “How’s it going?” An appropriate response would be to repeat the phrase back.
11. Habla – PeruLiterally, habla means “speak” and it is a very informal way of greeting a close friend in Peru. It is used as a replacement for “hello” and is often followed up with “How are you?” Because these two phrases are so often paired together, you can simply respond by telling the person how you are.
12. Wena – ChileIn Chile, wena is an informal greeting used among friends to say “hi” or “hello.” The same can be repeated back in response.
13. Holiii – across Latin AmericaHoliii is a derivative of hola. It is considered a very cute and informal greeting, a bit like “hiiii!” It is used among teenagers and young adults, and can be repeated back in response – alternatively, hola can be used as well.
14. Oye – across the Spanish-speaking worldIt literally means “hear,” but the English version of oye is “hey!” Not only is it used as a way to greet someone, but also as a way to grab someone’s attention. Due to its informality, oye is best applied in situations when talking to someone your age or younger. A correct way to respond would be with hola.
Fancy brushing up on your Spanish while making a social impact? Sign up here to kick-start your language journey with NaTakallam. Based on your language-learning needs and aspirations, you’ll be paired up with one of our fantastic, native-speaking Language Partners from displaced backgrounds.Make a friend for life AND discover a new culture. Vamos!
Learn Spanish through guided conversations with native speakers while gaining cultural insight, improving fluency, and connecting with people across borders.
Did you know that thousands of Spanish words have Arabic origins? From aceite (oil) to ojalá (“God willing”), the Arabic influence on Spanish dates back to the Arab rule of Al-Andalus between 711 and 1492 AD. In this blog, discover 50 fascinating Spanish words rooted in Arabic and explore the rich cultural and linguistic connections between the two languages.
Celebrate Eid authentically with greetings from various Arabic dialects. Understand the nuance behind each expression and uplift your holiday messages.
The Spanish language and culture has traveled to different corners of the world, interacting with diverse communities throughout Latin America, parts of the US, the Caribbean islands, Europe, and even in Africa and Asia! Spanish is the official language in over 20 countries, one of the six official languages of the United Nations, and currently the fastest-growing language with more than 580 million speakers worldwide. Given its Latin roots, it is also a familiar language for learners and speakers of other Romance languages, such as French, Italian and Portuguese.
But did you know… about the impact of Arabic over the Spanish language? That’s right! The influence of Arabic on the Spanish language, mostly through loanwords, largely originated from the Arab rule in the Iberian Peninsula between 711 and 1492 AD, notably in Al-Andalus (الأَنْدَلُس) of southern Spain, referred to as Andalusia, today. As a result, there are approximately 4,000 Spanish words with Arabic origins, to date!
Travel back in time with our top 50 favorite Spanish words that have come from Arabic.
Alcancía (Piggy bank) – from Al-kanz (الكنز), meaning ‘treasure’ in Arabic
Albaricoque (Apricot) – derived from the Arabic word for ‘plum’, al-barquq (اَلْبَرْقُوق)
Arroz (Rice) – from ar-ruzz (أَرُزّ)
Aceite (Oil) – from az-zait (الزيت)
Aceituna (Olive) – from az-zaytūn (الزَّيْتُون)
Azafrán (Saffron) – from the Arabic word az-za’farān (اَلزَّعْفَرَان) ultimately derived from Persian.
Azúcar (Sugar) Arabic – from as-sukkar (السكر)
Arrecife (Coral reef) – from ar-raseef (الرصيف), meaning ‘platform’ or ‘sidewalk’ in Arabic
Albahaca (Basil) – from al-habagh (الحبق)
Algodón (Cotton) – from al-quton (القطن)
Alcalde (Mayor) – from al-qādi (القاضي), derived from the Arabic word for ‘the judge’
Aldea (Village) – from al-daya’a (اَلضَّيْعَة), meaning a ‘small village’ in Arabic
Ajedrez (Chess) – evolved al-shatranj (الشطرنج), from Middle Persian chatrang (چترنگ), and ultimately derived from an Indian strategy game called chaturanga (चतुरङ्ग) in Sanskrit, referring to the ‘four arms’ of an army in the ancient times
Alcohol (Alcohol) – from al-kuhol (الكحول)
Álgebra (Algebra) – derived from the Arabic word al-jabr (الجبر), meaning ‘reunion/resetting of broken parts’
Algoritmo (Algorithm) – derived from the surname of 9th-century Persian mathematician, Al-Khwarizmi (الْخُوَارِزْمِيّ), roughly transliterated to Medieval Latin as algorismus, whose works introduced advanced mathematics to the West
Alfombra (Carpet/rug) – derived from the Arabic word hanbal (حَنْبَل), originally referring to Moroccan ceremonial tapestry’ still widely using in Morocco today
Almohada (Pillow) – from the Arabic word al-mikhaddah (المخدة), meaning cushion or pillow
Alquiler (To rent) – from the Arabic word al-kirraʾ (الكِرَاء), meaning to ‘rent/hire/lease’
Asesino (Murderer) – with a fascinating etymology and story, evolved from the Arabic word hashashin (حشَّاشين), meaning ‘hashish users’, derived from the word hashish (حشيش), meaning ‘grass’ or ‘[powdered] hemp’
Atún (tuna) – from the Arabic al-tun (التون), derived from ancient Greek thynnos (θύννος), meaning ‘tuna’
Azul (Blue) – from Arabic word lāzuward (لَازُوَرْد), meaning ‘lapis lazuli’, a stone with a deep blue color
Albóndiga (Meatball) – derived from the Arabic word al-bunduq (البندق), meaning ‘hazelnut’, due to its resemblance of shape and color. The Arabic word has allegedly evolved from the Ancient Greek Ποντικόν κάρυον, meaning the ‘nut of/from Pontus [region]’
Barrio (Neighborhood) – derived from the Arabic word barri (بَرِّيّ) which originally meant ‘outside [of the city]’
Brújula (Compass) – from bousola (بوصلة)
Bellota (Acorn) – from balluta (بَلُّوطَة)
Berenjena (eggplant) – from badenjān (باذنجان)
Café (Coffee) – borrowed from Dutch koffie, taken from Turkish kahveh, and derived from Arabic qahwa (قهوة), which originally meant ‘wine’. It is also argued that the Arabic word is derived from the Ethopian city, Kaffa, where the coffee plant was discovered
Cifra (digit) – evolved from sefr (صفر) meaning ‘zero’ in Arabic, ultimately from Sanskrit sunya (शून्य), meaning ‘empty’ or ‘void’
Dado (Dice) – derived from the Arabic word a’dad (عدد) meaning ‘numbers’
Elixir (Elixir) – from al-iksir (الإكسير)
Guitarra (Guitar) – from gitara (غيتارة)
Hasta (Until) – from hatta (حتى)
Hazaña (Feat/deed) – from the Arabic word hasana (حَسَنَة), meaning ‘good deed’
Jarabe (Medication) – from the Arabic word sharāb (شَرَاب), meaning ‘a drink/beverage/wine/coffee/syrup’
Jarra (Earthenware jar) – from the Arabic word jarrah (جَرَّة), meaning ‘earthen receptacle’ or ‘made of glass, porcelain’
Jirafa (Giraffe) – from zarāfah (زرافة)
Joroba (Plateau) – from the Arabic word hadaba (هَضَبَة), meaning ‘hill’ or ‘plateau’
Limón (Lemon) – from the Arabic word limun (ليمون), derived from Persian limu (لیمو)
Mezquino (Stingy or petty) – from the Arabic word miskeen (مِسْكِين), meaning poor or miserly, originally derived from Akkadian, the oldest known Semitic language, spoken in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq)
Mazmorra (Dungeon) – from the Arabic word matmura (مَطْمُورَة), meaning ‘cellar’
Momia (Mummy) – from the Arabic word moomiya’ (مومياء), ultimately derived from the Persian word moomiya’ (مُومِيَاء ) from Persian moom (موم), meaning ‘wax’
Naranja (Orange) – from the Arabic word nāranja (نارنج), derived from the Persian word nārang (نارنگ) referring to the bitter orange fruit, ultimately from Sanskrit nāraṅga (नारङ्ग) meaning ‘orange tree’
Noria (Ferris wheel) – from the Arabic word nā’oora (نَاعُورَة), ultimately derived from the old Syriac words nāʿōrtāʾ (ܢܥܘܪܬܐ) meaning ‘water wheel/growler’
Ojalá (Hopefully/Let’s hope so) – from the Arabic word inshālla (ان شاء الله), meaning ‘God-willing’ or ‘if God wills’
Sandía (Watermelon) – from the Classical Arabic word sindiyyah (سندية), meaning [the fruit] from the Sindh region (in India and Pakistan), derived from the Sanskrit word sindhu (सिन्धु), also meaning ‘of or from the Sindh’
Tarea (Homework) – from the Arabic word tariha (طَرِيحَة), meaning ‘endeavor’, from the root taraha (طرح), ‘to throw’
Taza (Mug/Cup) – from the Arabic word tassa (طاسة), ultimately from the Persian word tās (تاس) meaning ‘mug’
Tambour (Drum) – from the Arabic word tunbūr (طُنْبُور), derived from the Persian word tabir (تبیر), meaning ‘to drum’
Zanahoria (Carrot) – from old Arabic isfanāriyya (إِسْفَنَارِيَّة), ultimately derived from the ancient Greek phrase stafulinos agrios (σταφυλίνη ἀγρία) meaning ‘wild carrot’. Fun fact: both Arabic and Greek use different words for ‘carrot’ today!
Want to dive deeper into language and etymology? NaTakallam can help you with that! Our language partners from refugee or displaced backgrounds can help you pick up Spanish and/or Arabic, while also providing you with a cultural experience that will help you transcend borders.
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Whether you’re a Spanish or Arabic learner, or simply a language enthusiast, learning a language with NaTakallam you will get to experience the beauty and interrelated nature of the linguistic world. Sign up here, today!
Up for a challenge this summer? We recommend picking/brushing up a language – perhaps, Spanish! As we mark UN Spanish Language Day, observed annually on April 23rd, here are five reasons to learn this beautiful language.
1. It’s the second-most spoken language in the world
Learning Spanish gives you the ability to connect with more than 580 million people! Spanish is the official language of over 20 countries and is widely spoken in Spain, Latin America and the United States. Spanish is the second most spoken language worldwide, with a higher proportion of speakers who recognize it as their first and primary language over English. There is rapid growth in the number of Spanish language speakers, meaning that there is a growing opportunity for Spanish language learners to engage and immerse themselves in the language.
2. It has a rich literature
Spanish is the language of world-class literature. Spanish classics include the likes of Colombian author García Márques’ novel Cien años de soledad (One Hundred Years of Solitude), which won a Nobel Prize for literature for its foray into magical realism; the award-winning anthology of works by Chilean author Isabel Allende; and the much-celebrated novel Don Quixote, by Miguel de Cervantes. If you have a passion for great books, learning Spanish might just be for you.
3. It’s a gateway to other languages
Spanish belongs to the family of Romance languages. Learning Spanish will give you a head start on several other languages, including Italian, Portuguese and French. The general structure of these languages is very similar, meaning that if you’ve studied one member of the family, the others are much easier to grasp. Spanish has also borrowed a large part of its vocabulary from Arabic, including ojalá (hope), almohada (pillow), and azúcar (sugar), making it an excellent bridge between the Romance and Semitic language families. In short, Spanish is an excellent jumping-off point to a lifetime of language acquisition!
4. Language of the future
Spanish is an amazing language with rising potential. If you are interested in travel, increasing your career prospects or just learning a marketable new skill, studying Spanish may be the way to go! Spanish is an excellent way to leverage your career opportunities. The rapid growth of the Spanish language across the globe, from Europe to Latin America, has seen a rising demand for Spanish speakers in the international job market. With a diverse and global array of Spanish speakers, there’s no wonder international organizations, governments and big-name brands are looking to include them. If you are interested in testing your intellectual capabilities and improving your career prospects, learning Spanish will open new doors.
5. Easy to learn
Unlike some other languages, with standard Spanish, what you see is what you get! Spanish is a phonetic language, meaning that words are spelled exactly as they are pronounced – with due consideration for the unique pronunciation of certain letters in Spanish and its dialects, and of course the letter h, which is silent! Also, you may already know some Spanish, as thousands of English words have been borrowed from the language: for example, the word “barbecue,” which comes from the Spanish term “barbacoa,” or the word “cargo,” which is derived from the Spanish verb “cargar,” meaning “to load.”
If you are interested in discovering new worlds and cultures, increasing your career mobility AND making a social impact, consider learning Spanish with NaTakallam, today! NaTakallam brings Latin America to your doorstep with native tutors from refugee backgrounds. Learn a language, make a friend and support the livelihoods of forcibly displaced persons – from the comfort of your home.
CREDITS – Copywriting: Lucy Haley is a copywriter with NaTakallam. She is currently completing her Masters in International Relations. She is an avid reader, gym-goer and language learner, and loves nothing more than a good cup of coffee. – Copyediting: Maria Thomas is a copywriter with NaTakallam. She is currently pursuing her doctoral studies in art history. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, powerlifting and going on hikes. – Copyediting: Mikaela Bell is a copywriter with NaTakallam. She is loves reading, creative writing, learning new languages, and dance. – Copyediting: Emmy Plaschy is a volunteer content writer and editor at NaTakallam. She currently works in communications in Switzerland. In her spare time, she enjoys polishing her Arabic skills, writing and gazing at the stars.
Women’s History Month or any day of the year, here are 5 Latin American feminists you need to know and celebrate!
1. Frida Kahlo (Mexico, 1907-1954)
Frida Kahlo was a Mexican artist known for her paintings that explored themes of female subjectivity, sexuality and marginality. Through her highly symbolic canvases, many of which were built around her own self-portraits – for example, Self-Portrait with Cropped Hair, Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird – Kahlo eschewed gender stereotypes and gave voice to often taboo aspects of femininity.
2. Excilia Saldaña (Cuba, 1946-1999)
Excilia Saldaña was an award-winning Cuban essayist, poet, translator, academic and author of children’s books. Her works – including the book, La Noche (‘The Night’), poems such as My Name (A Family Anti Elegy) and short stories like Kele Kele – were very important contributions to the creation and consolidation of a tradition of Afro-Hispanic women writers and artists.
3. Cecilia Vicuña (Chile, 1948-)
Cecilia Vicuña is a Chilean poet and multidisciplinary artist. Her works, which include collections of poems such as Precario/Precarious (1973) and Unravelling Words and Weaving Water (1992), and art installations such as Could-Net and Quipu Menstrual, are grounded in her understanding that the political, environmental and indigenous are inherently connected and must be addressed as such. Also, central to Vicuña’s works are her explorations of the connections between gendered injustice and environmental despoliation.
4. Selva Almada (Argentina, 1973-)
Selva Almada is an Argentinian writer who is considered one of the most powerful voices of contemporary Argentinian and Latin American literature. She is also recognised as one of the most influential feminist intellectuals of the region. Her works, particularly her book, Dead Girls – originally published originally in Spanish as Chicas Muertas in 2014 – highlight issues such as gendered violence, femicide and the legal inadequacies of Argentinian legal systems in addressing them.
5. Clarice Lispector (Brazil, 1920-1977)
Clarice Lispector was an Ukranian-born Brazillian novelist and short-story writer. Her family fled Western Ukraine to escape the pogroms that followed World War I and the Russian Civil War. Her works written in Portuguese include short story collections such as Laços de família (‘Family Ties’) and Para não esquecer (‘Not to Forget’), and novels such as Perto do coração selvagem (translated and published in English as Near to the Wild Heart), A Paixão segundo G.H. (translated and published in English as The Passion According to G.H.). French feminist writer Hélène Cixous credits her works with “exploring women’s identity with a depth that no one has achieved until now”.
Learn Spanish and explore the worlds of these inspirational women with NaTakallam!
We are a women-led and women-fueled community that offers language sessions in Spanish, among other languages. Our Latin American native language tutors are individuals who have been displaced from countries like Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Guatemala, and are currently resettled in neighboring countries such as Uruguay, Costa Rica, the United States, Ecuador, Trinidad and Tobago, and Argentina.
Brush up your Spanish skills, delve into Latin American cultures and experiences, and celebrate these incredible women, today and everyday!
This piece was contributed by Maria Thomas, a copywriter with NaTakallam. She is currently pursuing her doctoral studies in art history. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, powerlifting and going on hikes.
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, express your affection to your loved one in one of the most romantic languages in the world – español! Here are 5 fun ways to impress your loved one this Valentine’s.
1. Te quiero
From the verb “querer” (to want), this phrase literally translates to “I want you”, however, within certain contexts, it is also taken to mean “I love you”. It is usually a lighter expression of care and affection compared to “te amo” (I love you), which has a more romantic or intimate connotation and is reserved for a lover.
2. Flechazo
Literally translates to “an arrow shot” – and connotes love at first sight! It is used to refer to the joys and pains of falling in love at the first sight and has no equivalent word/expression in English.
3. Querido/Querida
One of the most common terms of endearment – it’s translated as “darling” or “sweetheart”!
4. Mi reina/rey
Make your Valentine feel extra special – and royal – by calling them “my queen” or “my king”. This term of endearment is also used between platonic friends to mean “darling” or “dude”.
5. ¡Que mono/mona eres!
In Spain, this phrase means something like “you’re so cute”. But if you want to translate it literally, you would be telling your crush: “you’re so monkey”!
Have you ever experienced a “Flechazo”? Fall in love with Español, one of the most romantic languages in the world, with NaTakallam’s unique language learning experience with Latin American tutors from displaced backgrounds.
PS: Still scrambling for a last minute Valentine’s gift? NaTakallam’s Gift of Language is meaningful, shipping-free and will surely surprise your querido/querida!
Love is a universal language but some days you need a little extra help with expressing your affection to your loved one. Here are our top 10 love expressions in 6 languages.
1. Arabic: Damu-hu/hā khafeef (دمه/ دمها خفيف) Literally meaning “his/her blood is light”, this expression is used to say that you find someone extremely funny and adorable! Don’t forget that gender matters in Arabic: when referring to a male, use damu-hu khafeef, and for a female, use damu-ha khafeef.
2. Spanish: Eres un bombón Like the previous expression, this phrase is a way of complimenting a loved one when they look particularly sweet. It literally translates to “you are a bonbon”.
3. French: Mon petit chou (masculine) or Ma choupinette (feminine) This unique term of endearment can often be confusing. It literally translates to “my little cabbage”! However, you’re not calling your loved one a cabbage here but a “chou” short for ‘chou à la crème’, a sweet French puff pastry!
4. Persian (Farsi): Delam barāt tang shode (دلم برات تنگ شده) When “I miss you” just isn’t enough, employ this poetic Persian phrase. It literally translates to “my heart has tightened for you”. This expression conveys the physical agony of being separated from a loved one – you miss someone so much that you can’t breathe!
5. Spanish: Me haces mucha falta Although this Spanish expression is commonly translated as “I miss you”, it has a more heartwarming meaning to it. When broken down, it translates to: you make a big absence in me, or you are lacking from me!
6. French: Retrouvailles Perhaps more relevant these past two years than ever: the unmatched feeling of joy when finally reunited with a loved one after much time apart – that’s exactly what this untranslatable French word conveys!
7. Kurmanji Kurdish: Kezeb-a min Go beyond the typical terms of endearment with this Kurmanji expression. Address your loved one – lover, family or friend – with: “kezeb-a min”, literally meaning “my liver”. This expression conveys how vital they are to your life, like the liver to the human body!
8. Arabic: Tuqburnii (تقبرني)
No, we did not mix up our Valentine’s Day and Halloween expression lists! Although this phrase literally means: “you bury me”, it’s used to imply that one would rather die and have you bury them, than live without you! A rather touching expression of love!
9. Persian (Farsi): Doret begardam (دورت بگردم) Another poetic Persian phrase, this one translates literally to: “let me circle around you”, in effect meaning, “I would do anything for you”. We love the planetary imagery this evokes!
10. Eastern Armenian: Janit mernem (ջանիդ մեռնեմ) Literally meaning “let me die on/for your body”, this is said to show your profound love and care for someone! A heartwarming expression of love, to be taken metaphorically, of course ;)!
Roses are red, violets are blue, express love in new languages, & meet NaTakallam’s awesome (refugee) language tutors, too! Treat yourself to our unique language lessons or give the Gift of Language to your loved ones, near or far. Available in Arabic, Armenian, English, French, Kurdish, Persian and Spanish.
At NaTakallam, every language session contributes to the livelihoods of our skilled tutors from displaced backgrounds. Learn a language, make a friend, change a life.
Want to go beyond the blasé gracias? Here are some other ways to thank someone in Spanish! For curious cats out there, we’ve also written ways to say thank you in French, Persian, and Arabic.
In this article, you’ll learn the nuances of different ways to say thank you in Spanish. Whether you’re learning when to use eres un sol or going with the classic gracias, you can learn more greetings and conversational starters with our Spanish language partners.
1. Gracias (grah-see-ahs)
The most common way to say “thank you” in Spanish can be used anywhere and anytime: from receiving your “café con leche” at the cafe or thanking someone for holding the door open! You can also add “muchas” in front of the word to give “many” thanks to someone throughout all Spanish speaking countries.
A simple response to this would be “de nada” meaning, you’re welcome, or quite literally “from nothing”
2. (Estoy) Muy agradecido/a (ehs-toy muy agra-de-sido/a)
This is a lovely way to say “(I’m) very grateful for you” – a politer version of “thank you so much”. The adjective “agradecido” is translated as “grateful”, and preceding it with “Estoy muy…” will earn you bonus points! Remember to modify masculine “agradecido” to “agradecida” if you’re speaking to a female!
3. Eres un sol (eres un sol)
This is slang-Spanish so make sure to read the room first! “Eres un sol” literally means “you are a sunshine” and by calling this person “the sun” or “sunshine” you’re thanking them for something! For example, if you give your Spanish-speaking friend a gift, you may receive a flattering “eres un sol”, similar to the English term of endearment “You’re a doll!”
4. Eres recapo/a (eres reh-capo/a)
Anyone looking to head to Argentina once lockdowns ease up? This is a term used by Argentines to mean “You’re the best!” when you want to go beyond just “gracias”. Again, -o for the masculine and -a for the feminine noun!
Did you know, the “acento argentino” or Argentine accent of Spanish is influenced by Italian, due to large waves of Italian immigration to Argentina in the 19th & 20th centuries? You may even hear Argentinians use the word “chao”, to mean “bye” – derived from the Italian “ciao”!
5. Te la/lo debo (te la/lo de-bo)
Spanish for “I owe you” – Instead of responding with a simple “gracias” if your friend buys you tickets to see “partido de fútbol” or “a football match”, you can say “te la/lo debo”, to let them know you got them next time! Both versions roughly mean the same thing, but “te la debo” means “I owe you one” whereas “te lo debo” means something like “I owe it to you”.
Now, want to put your motivation into action?
“¡Vámonos!” Lets go… Book a conversation session, here, with one of our native Spanish conversation partners or gift a conversation, here, to a loved one – near or far!
Language is more than a series of words. Language is a powerful tool for creating dialogue between diverse communities and an invaluable cornerstone of peacebuilding. As the human rights champion and Noble Peace Prize recipient, Nelson Mandela, summed it up, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.”
In today’s world, amid new and ongoing conflicts, political leaders and diplomats worldwide face heightened scrutiny. In such a landscape, multilingualism has become more crucial than ever – not just for fostering cross-cultural understanding but as an essential skill for effective communication, negotiation, and peacebuilding in the international arena.
Given the United States’ role on the global stage, one might assume its leaders would lean toward multilingualism. Yet, out of 46 US presidents, only 20 (43%) have spoken a second language.
Meanwhile, some of the most well-known leaders of English-speaking countries – the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand – are monolingual. But, for example, Jacinda Ardern, former New Zealand Prime Minister, wishes she had learned Maoriand has promised to raise her daughter speaking the indigenous language.
Some (In)famous Monolingual World Leaders
1. Anthony Albanese (Australia): English
2. Javier Milei (Argentina): Spanish
3. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Brazil): Brazilian Portuguese
4. Xi Jinping (China): Mandarin
5. Christopher Luxon (New Zealand): English
6. Keir Starmer (UK): English
7. Joe Biden (USA): English
8. Donald Trump (USA): English
Multilingual world leaders are of course not without fault, but let’s take a look at some leaders whose linguistic skills have impacted their roles.
Some Famous Multilingual World Leaders
1. Nelson Mandela (South Africa): English and Afrikaans, also understood several African languages, fostering unity in post-apartheid South Africa. 2. Kofi Annan (Ghana, Former UN Secretary-General): English, French, and several African languages, known for his peacekeeping efforts. 3. Angela Merkel (Germany): German, English, and Russian, used her language skills to engage in diplomacy across Europe and beyond. 4. Ban Ki-moon (South Korea, Former UN Secretary-General): Korean and English, with knowledge of French, aiding his global diplomatic initiatives.
5. Queen Máxima (Netherlands): Spanish, Dutch, English, with French, enhancing her role in international engagements. 6. Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa): English, Afrikaans, and several South African languages (including Tshivenda, Xitsonga, Ndebele, Isizulu, Setswana, Sepedi, and IsiXhosa). This linguistic diversity has been instrumental in promoting inclusivity, enabling him to address different communities directly and address concerns with greater cultural sensitivity.
Imagine the impact if more world leaders were required to be culturally and linguistically competent in a foreign language – and to leverage their multilingual skills for peace, diplomacy, and collaboration across borders.
At NaTakallam, language doesn’t stop at syntax. Whatever languages you speak – or are eager to learn – embrace the role of language in opening doors to new cultures, building empathy, and fostering intercultural competencies.
With NaTakallam’s experienced language partners, you’re not just learning to speak – you’re delving into the cultural nuances and contexts that define meaningful communication. Each session highlights the importance of language as a tool for understanding, reinforcing how multilingualism can build connections, prevent misunderstandings, and promote peace. This immersive experience empowers you to not only communicate but also appreciate the subtleties that can shape the difference between merely talking and truly connecting across languages, embodying the spirit of multilingualism as a catalyst for dialogue and peacebuilding.
