False Friends in Latvian
Several words in Latvian might sound similar to English words, but don’t get yourself fooled - they do not indicate the same meaning. These are called “false friends” - which, according to the Oxford Dictionary means - “a word or expression that has a similar form to one in a person's native language, but a different meaning”. Navigating false friends is essential for language learners, as it prevents misunderstandings and promotes clearer communication. And in some cases, the mistakes can be even tragic. Let’s look at some false friends in the Latvian language.
“Patētisks” or “Pathetic”
If “pathetic” conveys something miserable or elicits pity, the word “patētiskis” has the complete opposite meaning in Latvian. “Patētisks” is something joyful, something that raises high emotions, for example, a painting or piece of art can be “patētiska”. If you want to use the word “pathetic” in Latvian, you better use “nožēlojams”.
"Brīvs" or "Brave"
While "brīvs" might seem reminiscent of the English word "brave," meaning courageous or fearless, its Latvian counterpart translates to "free" or "available." So, if you're waiting for someone to show their bravery in Latvia, you might want to use the word "drosmīgs" instead.
"Fabrika" or "Fabric"
While "fabrika" bears resemblance to the English word "fabric," referring to woven material, in Latvian, it signifies a factory or manufacturing plant. So, if you're looking to buy some cloth in Latvia, you'd be better off asking for "auduma veikals."
“Magazīna” or “Magazine”
“Magazine” is usually a printed publication, that comes out once or twice a month and you can buy it in any supermarket or newsstand. However, in Latvian, a similar-sounding word refers to a part of a gun. Yes, yes, the part where one puts the bullets in. This is a word you do not want to mix up. If you want to buy a magazine, ask for “žurnāls” in Latvian.
"Mans" or "Man’s"
On the surface, "mans" might appear identical to the English word "man's," indicating possession or ownership. However, in Latvian, "mans" means "my" or "mine," while "man's" would be translated as "vīra" or "vīrietis" depending on the context.
"Karte" or "Cart"
"Karte" might initially bring to mind the English word "cart," which can refer to a vehicle or a list of items for purchase. However, in Latvian, "karte" means "map" or "card." So, if you're looking for a shopping cart, you'd ask for an "iepirkšanās grozs" or just simply "grozs".
“Prezervatīvi” or “Preservatives”
Well, this is another example, which is usually the most typical good or bad case example in Latvian-English false friends. If in English by preservatives you mean ingredients to keep for example food fresh longer, then the word “prezervatīvi” means condoms in Latvian. The correct translation of “Preservatives” would be “konservanti”.
I hope this helps to avoid some misunderstandings, let me know if you have found other false friends in Latvian!
Vita, OLS Community Manager - Latvian