10 Funny, Hard to Translate Bulgarian Words
Source: Canva
The Bulgarian language is difficult to learn. It has complicated grammar, many rules to remember, such as the correct placement of articles and the coordination of verbs with subordinates, and difficult pronunciation. In a few words, a real challenge.
On the other hand, humor can be a good learning assistant and help us remember something seemingly complicated much easier.
That's why I dedicate this article to laughter.
Below, I present you some funny words found in the official Bulgarian dictionary. They are almost impossible to translate directly, they are funny to pronounce, but if you learn them, you will always manage to entertain your Bulgarian friends and acquaintances.
1. Крокозъбел (krokozabel) – ugly (in appearance and behavior)
The krokozabel is a mythical urban-rural creature, which most often ventures under the guise of an unsavory person with ill-mannered behavior. The word is a combination of the animal crocodile and teeth.
2. Джиткам (djitkam) – Walk around, walk around
Also used as a car or bike ride.
3. Джунджурийки (djundjuriika) - Something small
This word is used for any single object or part of an object that can fit in the palm of your hand. For example, jewelry is djundjuriika.
4. Сколасам (skolasam) – To succeed
To manage to do something after some effort. “I tried to be on time for lectures.”
5. Мерак (Merak) - Strong desire
A quintessential Balkan term, "merak" embodies a sense of pleasure or contentment that you want.
6. Шепа (Shepa) - A small amount collected in a palm in your hand.
This word denotes a small quantity or pinch of something, usually used in cooking or seasoning.
7. Пуканка (Pukanka) - Popcorn
Bulgarians have a unique term for popcorn, known as "pukanka".
8. Чорапогащник (tchorapogashtnik) - pantyhose
А piece of clothing, mainly women, that is worn tightly around the legs and pelvis, combining stockings and panties
9. Патладжан (patladjan) - Еggplant
The name of the vegetable sounds funny, but the word is real.
10. Клюкарник (Klyukarnik) - Gossip gathering
The word comes from “klyukar” which means “a person who likes to gossip”. When there are more people, they turn to “klyukarnik”.
Here is a challenge for you! Choose a word from this list, record yourself, and share it with the community in the comments below. Show us your skills and how you master the Bulgarian language!
Source: Canva
Reneta, OLS Community Manager – Bulgarian