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نویسنده: AliBina
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Free Turkish Gifts of the Month – April 2025
Access your free language gifts right now before they expire. First, 30 plus words and phrases for April Fool’s Day. This PDF will teach you how to say, that’s not funny, I don’t get it, and much more just in time for April Fool’s Day. Second, being funny, PDF conversation cheat sheet. This next PDF teaches you a quick conversation about telling jokes in your target language. Third, talking about months. If you can’t say the months, this one minute lesson will teach you how to say them all in your target language. Fourth, 15 flattering lines to impress native speakers. If you want to speak with natives, you’ll want to know these phrases. And fifth, want an app that gets you speaking from day one? The Innovative Language Learning app gives you bite-sized conversation lessons, where you listen to conversations between real native speakers and then get everything explained so you can speak and understand fast. Download it for free on Android, iPhone, and iPad. To get your free gifts of the month, click the link in the description below and download them now before they expire. -
Asking for Information in a Russian Office
INTRODUCTION John: Hi everyone, and welcome back to RussianPod101.com. This is Business Russian for Beginners Season 1 Lesson 10 – Asking for Information in a Russian Office. I’m John. Karina: Привет, I’m Karina. John: In this lesson, you’ll learn how to ask for a simple piece of information in your workplace. The conversation takes place at the office. Karina: It’s between Linda and Anna. John: The speakers are co-workers, so they will use informal Russian. Okay, let’s listen to the conversation. DIALOGUE Линда: Ты знаешь телефон Елены? Анна: Да, её рабочий телефон 84951234567. Линда: Я пыталась дозвониться, но её не было. Ты не знаешь её мобильный? Анна: Конечно, 89141234567 и её адрес электронной почты elena@mail.com. John: Listen to the conversation one time slowly. Линда: Ты знаешь телефон Елены? Анна: Да, её рабочий телефон 84951234567. Линда: Я пыталась дозвониться, но её не было. Ты не знаешь её мобильный? Анна: Конечно, 89141234567 и её адрес электронной почты elena@mail.com. John: Listen to the conversation with the English translation Linda: Do you know Elena’s telephone number? Anna: Yes, her office number is 84951234567. Linda: I tried earlier, but she was not in. Do you also know her mobile phone number? Anna: Sure, it’s 89141234567 and her email address is elena@mail.com. POST CONVERSATION BANTER John: Are office transfers common in Russia? Karina: Despite the fact that Russia is the biggest country in the world, office transfers are not that common. John: Is there a specific reason for that? Karina: It may be because according to Russian Labor Law, a job transfer is possible only with an employee’s written agreement. Of course for some types of jobs, like in the oil and gas industry, job transfers are a usual thing. John: I see. Are there any other reasons? Karina: Another explanation for a low number of job transfers may be the fact that Russians have very strong family values and don’t really like working far away from home. John: What’s the Russian for “office transfer”? Karina: перевод по работе John: Okay, now onto the vocab. VOCAB LIST John: Let’s take a look at the vocabulary from this lesson. The first word is.. Karina: знать [natural native speed] John: to know Karina: знать[slowly – broken down by syllable] Karina: знать [natural native speed] John: Next we have.. Karina: телефон [natural native speed] John: phone Karina: телефон[slowly – broken down by syllable] Karina: телефон [natural native speed] John: Next we have.. Karina: рабочий [natural native speed] John: working, office Karina: рабочий[slowly – broken down by syllable] Karina: рабочий [natural native speed] John: Next we have.. Karina: пытаться [natural native speed] John: to try, to make an attempt Karina: пытаться[slowly – broken down by syllable] Karina: пытаться [natural native speed] John: Next we have.. Karina: мобильный [natural native speed] John: mobile Karina: мобильный[slowly – broken down by syllable] Karina: мобильный [natural native speed] John: And last.. Karina: электронная почта [natural native speed] John: email Karina: электронная почта[slowly – broken down by syllable] Karina: электронная почта [natural native speed] KEY VOCAB AND PHRASES John: Let’s have a closer look at the usage of some of the words and phrases from this lesson. The first phrase is.. Karina: пытаться дозвониться John: meaning “to try to reach somebody on the phone.” The phrase consists of two verbs – “to try” and “to reach somebody on the phone.” Karina: Notice that the second verb дозвониться consists of the prefix до John: meaning “to complete something,” which is typical of perfective verbs Karina: and the verb звонить meaning “to call”, and the suffix ся John: Which brings the meaning “to do something by yourself.” Can you give us an example using this phrase? Karina: Sure. For example, you can say.. Я пытался дозвониться ей всё утро. John: ..which means “I’ve tried to reach her on the phone all morning.” Okay, what’s the next word? Karina: конечно John: meaning “sure” Karina: You use this word to show the 100% certainty of a speaker, and there are no limitations on the usage of this word. John: Can you give us an example using this word? Karina: Sure. For example, you can say.. Конечно, мы придём. John: .. which means “Of course, we are coming.” Okay, next let’s take a look at how to read an email address in Russian Karina: elena@mail.com John: which is “elena@mail.com” In Russian, as you may have noticed, mail addresses are written with the Latin alphabet, so be sure you know how to read the various parts. “@” is… Karina: собака John: “dot” is… Karina: точка John: “com” is… Karina: ком. Other common domains are орг for “org” and ру for “ru” John: Can you give us a sample sentence? Karina: Sure. For example, you can say.. Самый популярный домен в России – точка ру.” John: .. which means “The most common domain in Russia is dot-r-u”. Okay, now onto the lesson focus. Lesson focus
John: In this lesson, you’ll learn about how to ask for a simple piece of information at the workplace. Karina: The example in the dialogue is Ты знаешь телефон Елены? John: “Do you know Elena’s telephone number?” Karina: The formula for questions like this is ты meaning “you” followed by знаешь “know” and a phrase… John: Usually an accusative noun combined with a genitive noun. Karina: In this example, телефон meaning “phone” is accusative and indicates an object, while Елены “Elena’s” is the genitive and specifies possession. John: The sentence we just talked about is used in informal speech. What if you need to ask a similar thing to your boss? Karina: In that case, you have to use the polite вы “you” and also add the negative не, “not,” to make it more polite, for example Вы не знаете телефон Елены? John: literally “Don’t you know Elena’s phone number?” Karina: here is another example – Вы знаете адрес электронной почты Фёдора? John: “Do you know Fyodor’s email address?” Now let’s take a look at the Russian verb meaning “to know.” Karina: знать John: There’s nothing difficult about this word, but the conjugations can be a bit challenging. Karina: We saw the second person singular Ты знаешь John: meaning “you know”, and which is used in informal situations Karina: and the second person plural Вы знаете John: meaning “you know” plural or polite. These are in the present tense, right? Karina: That’s right. John: In Russian there is only one present tense – Present Simple. If you learn the endings for the conjugations, you should be able to conjugate any verb. Karina: Right, first of all, you need to define whether the verb is of the first conjugation, where it doesn’t have и in infinitive form before ть, or the second, where it does. Then for the first conjugation, remove ть and add the right ending. For the second conjunction, remove ить and add the right ending. John: Which conjugation is the verb “to know”? Karina: знать is from the first conjugation. John: Let’s go through the complete conjugation and see the endings for the first conjugation verbs. “I know” is… Karina: Я знаю, the ending is -ю John: “you know” is… Karina: Ты знаешь, the ending is -ешь John: “he, she knows” is… Karina: Он / она знает and the ending is -ет John: “we know” is… Karina: Мы знаем and the ending is -ем John: “you know” plural or polite is… Karina: Вы знаете and the ending is -ете John: “They know” is… Karina: Они знают and the ending is -ют John: Are the endings for the second conjugation different? Karina: Yes, except for the first person singular, they are different. John: Let’s list them, for the first person “I” in both cases is… Karina: -ю or -у John: for the second person “you” singular is… Karina: -ешь for the first conjugation and -ишь for the second John: for the third person “he” or “she” is… Karina: -ет for the first conjugation and -ит for the second John: for the first person, “we” is Karina: -ем for the first conjugation and -им for the second John: for the second person “you” plural is.. Karina: -ете for the first conjugation and -ите for the second John: for the third person, “they” is… Karina: -ют or -ут for the first conjugation and -ят or -ат for the second Outro
John: Okay, that’s all for this lesson. Thank you for listening, everyone, and we’ll see you next time! Bye! Karina: Пока! -
Will Language Learning Become Obsolete in the Future?
Will Language Learning Become Obsolete? A Personal Reflection
The idea that language learning might become obsolete is one of those predictions that sparks excitement, fear, and a lot of debate.
Given the rapid development of translation technology – from Google Translate to AI-powered devices – some people, including myself, wonder if tech is making learning foreign languages obsolete.
But is that really the case? As a linguist, I find this question both intriguing and unsettling. Let me guide you through my considerations on this topic and let’s see if technology can truly replace the practice of learning a language.
Translation Technology
Translating Then and Translating Today
It is undoubtable that translation technology has evolved in the last decade. I remember using clunky, inaccurate tools for my school homework not too long ago, and now we have apps and devices that can instantly translate spoken language in real-time.
It was 2019, I was living in Russia when I met a Chinese guy. He spoke no English, but we managed to communicate thanks to the then-brand-new Google Translate setting that allowed to speak and instantly translate. Now, this is an everyday activity, but only six years ago, I was shocked by it!
Although these tools have evolved, they’re not flawless. If you ever used Google Translate aiming at obtaining a nuanced conversation, I am sure you felt disappointed at least once.
Words are often mistranslated, idioms are often misunderstood, and the emotional undertones get lost. Even with AI advancements, technology still struggles with context and cultural subtleties.
For instance, translating the Italian idiom in bocca al lupo as “in the mouth of the wolf” doesn’t capture the aim of wishing someone good luck, as you would do with the English “break a leg”.
Translation Tech is a Tool, Not a Replacement
From my experience, translation technology can be a helpful tool, especially for travelers or in emergency situations. But let’s be clear: translations tech is a tool, not a replacement.
Language is not just about words, it’s about connection, culture, and understanding the human experience from a different perspective. For example, how can you truly understand the Italian culture without knowing the meaning behind the expressions magari?
This perspective caught my attention when I read a discussion on Reddit on whether language learning will become obsolete.
Most users expressed skepticism about technology’s ability to replace language learning entirely and argued that, despite the advancements, technologies are still far from grasping the complexities and nuances of human language.
To be honest, I totally agree with them! Especially in the most recent days, with the promise of Neuralink as the future of communication and learning, some might wonder if these innovations could revolutionize how we perceive languages.
The True Value of Language Learning
Language learning goes beyond mere translation. When you learn a language, you gain insight into how people think, feel, and see the world. This helps explain the idea that you behave differently when you speak a different language.
Think of all those Italian words that have no equivalent in English: the word abbiocco, for example, describes the sleepy sensation that follows a large meal, something that the English translation “food coma” doesn’t fully capture.
This understanding adds depth to communication that no AI can replicate.
Why you Should not Fully Rely on Technology
Cognitive and Social Benefits
Multilingualism comes with cognitive benefits that technology simply can’t replicate. Studies show that learning a language improves memory, problem-solving skills, and even multitasking abilities. It also delays the onset of cognitive decline.
Moreover, there’s a unique social aspect: language classes, meetups, or even simple and random conversations with native speakers force us out of our comfort zones and foster human connections.
For instance, imagine the joy of understanding a joke in Italian or finally feeling confident ordering food in a market in Rome is irreplaceable. Could a device ever provide that feeling? I doubt it.
The Limitations of Technology
Imagine this scenario: you’re in a remote village in Italy, and your app suddenly stops working due to no internet connection. You’re left with the basic Italian basic vocabulary you learned in movies and body language.
Also, language is fluid and dynamic, constantly evolving with slang, new expressions, and cultural trends. AI struggles to keep up with these changes.
The Future of Language Learning
I know it is tempting to think that we’re moving towards a future where we’ll no longer need to learn languages, but, for me, the reality is more complex.
Translation technology will undoubtedly continue to improve, but it will never fully replicate the experience, benefits, and richness of learning a language.
Language learning is mainly about the human experience: the joy of discovery, the satisfaction of progress, and the beauty of connecting across cultures.
So, will language learning become obsolete? I’d say it’s just the opposite. As technology makes the world more accessible, the value of deep, meaningful human connections will increase even more.
And there’s no better way to connect than by speaking someone’s language.
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Spiegel Highlights Our Epic Parade
Gerald Traufetter, a German Journalist for the Spiegel newspaper, shared his captivating experience parading with the samba school at Sambadrome. His words paint a vivid picture of the sheer energy and emotional intensity of the Carnival. For an immersive cultural experience, our students paraded with Arranco.
What was the experience like to parade at the Sambadrome during Rio’s Carnival?
“Our group enters the Sambadrome, a 700-meter avenue surrounded by towering grandstands. At the end of it, I see the great curved arch marking the finish line of the parade. On that Friday night, it feels like the horizon where the world ends. The rhythm of the drums pulls us in like a vortex into this canyon of euphoria. A frenzy and a joy as if there were no tomorrow”. – Gerald Traufetter.
Read the full article: Feiern, während die Welt ins Wanken gerät
A German Journalist’s Carnival Journey
Traufetter’s article, “Celebrating While the World Crumbles“, delves into the surreal contrast of joyous celebration amidst global turmoil. He highlights the electric atmosphere from the moment the fireworks signaled the start of the parade, and the drums ignited a wave of movement.
Gerald Traufetter, captivated by the allure of Rio, embarked on a personal experiment: to fully immerse himself in the Carnival experience. He chronicles his journey from observer to participant, sharing his unique perspective on experiencing this vibrant cultural phenomenon.
The Energy of the Parade
“A show of fireworks gives the starting signal. Then the drums of the bateria start playing, and as if someone had pressed a button, the dancers start moving. Finally, it begins.” – Gerald Traufetter
Traufetter vividly describes the electrifying moment the parade commences. He captures the contagious energy that pulsates through the Sambadrome, drawing everyone into a collective rhythm. He recounts the instructions from Patricia, our director, emphasizing the importance of not just smiling, but truly “shining” to embody the spirit of Carnival.
Celebrating Amidst Global Uncertainty
“The night began with a shock, coming from far beyond the horizon. In Washington, US President Donald Trump and his deputy, J.D. Vance, were publicly humiliating Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.” – Gerald Traufetter
Traufetter’s experience wasn’t solely focused on the joyous celebration. He grapples with the contrast between the festive atmosphere and the unsettling global events unfolding simultaneously. He questions the ability to celebrate while the world seems to teeter on the brink of chaos. Yet, he finds solace and a sense of unity within the Carnival’s embrace.
”Once in a life time experience! Rhythm and Samba in the heart, soul and in the hips! I am very greatful that I found this wonderful language school Caminhos to give me very very good courses and this great opportunity to be part of a Samba School and to feel, see, learn what all this means to the Carioca people here. Thank you Caminhos for this incredible experience. Obrigada” – Andrea Regina K. from Darmstadt Germany (Caminhos Student)
Embracing the “Fome” (hunger)
“Patricia hands us our costumes: a big black garbage bag. ‘Everything’s fine,’ she says. Inside the bag, there is a suit made of strips of dark fabric, with a skeleton printed on the front. The costume is complemented by a huge hood adorned with two skulls on the sides. ‘You represent Hunger,’ says Patricia, smiling.” – Gerald Traufetter
Traufetter humorously recounts receiving his “Fome” (Hunger) costume, which starkly contrasts with the vibrant colors and joyous themes typically associated with Carnival. He reflects on the symbolism, acknowledging that even amidst celebration, life includes both joy and hardship.
The Story Behind the Parade: “Mães que Alimentam o Sagrado”
In 2025, Arranco do Engenho de Dentro presented the theme “Mães que Alimentam o Sagrado” (Mothers Who Feed the Sacred), crafted by the talented carnival designer Annik Salmon. This theme celebrated the multifaceted nature of motherhood in Brazil, emphasizing the strength, faith, and dedication of mothers in nurturing their families and communities. The school’s performance was structured in four main sectors:
- Ancestrality: This sector delved into the deep roots of motherhood, tracing its origins back to Africa and honoring the powerful female deities in Afro-Brazilian religions. Figures like Yemanjá, Ọ̀ṣùn, and other Ìyás (mothers) were represented, showcasing their role as keepers of wisdom and tradition.
- Plurality: A vibrant celebration of the diverse faces of motherhood in Brazil. From the Baianas preparing their traditional feijoada to indigenous women who cultivated essential foods like açaí and mandioca, this sector showcased the beautiful tapestry of cultures and culinary traditions woven together by mothers.
- Resistance: This poignant sector paid homage to the strength and resilience of mothers who face immense challenges. It honored the women working tirelessly in the fields, markets, and kitchens, ensuring their families are nourished and their cultural heritage preserved.
- Sustainability and Creativity: A Look towards the Future, this sector highlighted the ingenuity of mothers in creating a sustainable world for their children. It showcased initiatives of recycling and resourcefulness, symbolizing the care and dedication mothers have for future generations.
The samba-enredo (theme song) beautifully captured these themes, with lyrics like “I have the blood of a queen, nourished by the sacred,” resonating with the powerful message of the parade.
A Deeper Look into Arranco’s History and Culture
Arranco originates from Engenho de Dentro, a neighborhood with a rich history rooted in Portuguese colonization and African heritage. This blend of cultures is the essence of the Brazilian Carnival. The influence of Candomblé, an Afro-Brazilian religion, adds to the neighborhood’s unique cultural tapestry.
Read more: History And Types Of Samba In Brazil.
Our Continued Carnival Journey
This marked our fourth year participating in the parade with this wonderful Samba school, and each year has been an unforgettable experience. Each year with a new and exciting “Enredo”(plot). The energy, the community, and the sheer joy of Carnival are truly unique. We are looking forward to the next year.
If you are interested in studying Portuguese in Brazil, join Caminhos Language Centre, the largest and most exciting Portuguese school in Rio de Janeiro. We offer different types of group and private classes, and free after-class activities every day, promoting interaction between students and locals.
Caminhos also offers online classes, so you can learn Portuguese wherever you are with native teachers and exclusive material.
Caminhos Language Centre is the largest and most exciting Portuguese school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We have an excellent infrastructure, over 15 experienced Brazilian teachers, and a friendly multilingual support staff. We are the only school in Brazil able to offer Portuguese group courses throughout the year on 10 different levels. Moreover, our school also offers more than just Portuguese lessons for foreigners, we offer you the complete Rio de Janeiro experience. Every day we organize 100% free and fun activities for you to socialize and practice your Portuguese. We can also help you with a student visa for Brazil and accommodation in Rio de Janeiro. Follow us on Instagram for some Portuguese tips and news.
- Ancestrality: This sector delved into the deep roots of motherhood, tracing its origins back to Africa and honoring the powerful female deities in Afro-Brazilian religions. Figures like Yemanjá, Ọ̀ṣùn, and other Ìyás (mothers) were represented, showcasing their role as keepers of wisdom and tradition.
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Core Words: How to Say “Lunch,” “Dinner,” and More!
Hi everybody, my name is Thomas. Welcome to the 2000 Core Dutch Words and Phrases video series! Each lesson will help you learn new words, practice, and review what you’ve learned. Ok! Let’s get started! First is… WORD 1 (NORMAL SPEED) plantaardige olie (NORMAL SPEED) “vegetable oil” (NORMAL SPEED) plantaardige olie (SLOW) plantaardige olie (NORMAL SPEED) “vegetable oil” (NORMAL SPEED) Het eten smaakt lichter wanneer je plantaardige olie gebruikt in plaats van vet. (NORMAL SPEED) “Using vegetable oil instead of lard makes food taste lighter.” (SLOW) Het eten smaakt lichter wanneer je plantaardige olie gebruikt in plaats van vet. WORD 2 (NORMAL SPEED) sesamolie (NORMAL SPEED) “sesame oil” (NORMAL SPEED) sesamolie (SLOW) sesamolie (NORMAL SPEED) “sesame oil” (NORMAL SPEED) Sesamolie is perfect voor het roerbakken van vlees en groenten. (NORMAL SPEED) “Sesame oil is perfect for stir-frying of meats and vegetables.” (SLOW) Sesamolie is perfect voor het roerbakken van vlees en groenten. WORD 3 (NORMAL SPEED) ingrediënt (NORMAL SPEED) “ingredient” (NORMAL SPEED) ingrediënt (SLOW) ingrediënt (NORMAL SPEED) “ingredient” (NORMAL SPEED) Een belangrijk onderdeel van ieder recept is het gebruik van verse ingrediënten. (NORMAL SPEED) “Using fresh ingredients is an important part of any recipe.” (SLOW) Een belangrijk onderdeel van ieder recept is het gebruik van verse ingrediënten. WORD 4 (NORMAL SPEED) meel (NORMAL SPEED) “flour” (NORMAL SPEED) meel (SLOW) meel (NORMAL SPEED) “flour” (NORMAL SPEED) Je moet het meel met water mengen. (NORMAL SPEED) “You need to mix the flour with water.” (SLOW) Je moet het meel met water mengen. WORD 5 (NORMAL SPEED) bakolie (NORMAL SPEED) “cooking oil” (NORMAL SPEED) bakolie (SLOW) bakolie (NORMAL SPEED) “cooking oil” (NORMAL SPEED) plantaardige bakolie (NORMAL SPEED) “vegetable cooking oil” (SLOW) plantaardige bakolie WORD 6 (NORMAL SPEED) lunch (NORMAL SPEED) “lunch” (NORMAL SPEED) lunch (SLOW) lunch (NORMAL SPEED) “lunch” (NORMAL SPEED) Een stevige lunch maakt je ‘s middags slaperig. (NORMAL SPEED) “A big lunch will make you sleepy in the afternoon.” (SLOW) Een stevige lunch maakt je ‘s middags slaperig. WORD 7 (NORMAL SPEED) avondeten (NORMAL SPEED) “dinner” (NORMAL SPEED) avondeten (SLOW) avondeten (NORMAL SPEED) “dinner” (NORMAL SPEED) De familie is avondeten aan het eten. (NORMAL SPEED) “The family is eating dinner.” (SLOW) De familie is avondeten aan het eten. WORD 8 (NORMAL SPEED) voorgerecht (NORMAL SPEED) “appetizer” (NORMAL SPEED) voorgerecht (SLOW) voorgerecht (NORMAL SPEED) “appetizer” (NORMAL SPEED) bord voor voorgerecht (NORMAL SPEED) “appetizer plate” (SLOW) bord voor voorgerecht WORD 9 (NORMAL SPEED) hoofdgerecht (NORMAL SPEED) “main course” (NORMAL SPEED) hoofdgerecht (SLOW) hoofdgerecht (NORMAL SPEED) “main course” (NORMAL SPEED) rundvlees als hoofdgerecht (NORMAL SPEED) “beef for the main course” (SLOW) rundvlees als hoofdgerecht WORD 10 (NORMAL SPEED) thuis koken (NORMAL SPEED) “home cooking” (NORMAL SPEED) thuis koken (SLOW) thuis koken (NORMAL SPEED) “home cooking” (NORMAL SPEED) Ik mis het thuis koken van mijn vrouw het meest wanneer ik op reis ben. (NORMAL SPEED) “When I travel, what I miss most is my wife’s homecooking.” (SLOW) Ik mis het thuis koken van mijn vrouw het meest wanneer ik op reis ben. PRACTICE/REVIEW Let’s review. Respond to the prompts by speaking aloud. First, you will hear a word or phrase in English. Respond in Dutch, then repeat after me, focusing on pronunciation. Ready? (Do you remember how to say “vegetable oil?” Review 1) (3) (2) (1) plantaardige olie (1) plantaardige olie (And how to say “sesame oil?” Review 2) (3) (2) (1) sesamolie (1) sesamolie (What about “ingredient?” Review 3) (3) (2) (1) ingrediënt (1) ingrediënt (Do you remember how to say “flour?” Review 4) (3) (2) (1) meel (1) meel (Let’s try “cooking oil!” Review 5) (3) (2) (1) bakolie (1) bakolie (What about “lunch?” Review 6) (3) (2) (1) lunch (1) lunch (Now, let’s see if you remember how to say “dinner!” Review 7) (3) (2) (1) avondeten (1) avondeten (Another one! What about “appetizer?” Review 8) (3) (2) (1) voorgerecht (1) voorgerecht (Do you remember how to say “main course?” Review 9) (3) (2) (1) hoofdgerecht (1) hoofdgerecht (And finally, do you remember how to say “home cooking?” Review 10) (3) (2) (1) thuis koken (1) thuis koken Well done! See you next time! Tot ziens. -
Throwback Thursday S1 #10 – Russian Dinner Gone Awry — Video Conversation
learn how to ask someone’s opinion with this video conversation
Source link -
‘Somewhere, Somewhat, Sometime’ in Italian
Indefinite Expressions in Italian
In both English and Italian, indefinite expressions allow to convey a sense of uncertainty. However, the way each language handles this vagueness is different.
An example of these expressions are indefinite pronouns like qualcuno (someone), nessuno (no one), qualcosa (something), niente (nothing).
The easiest way you can convey a sense of vagueness in English is by means of the indefinite adjective “some“, which corresponds to the Italian qualche.
However, while English makes use of this word in a very flexible way, Italian requires a more context-specific approach to vagueness. This means that qualche doesn’t always map directly onto the English “some”.
Here, I will guide you through different ways you can translate all those expressions that are composed of “some” and another term, be it a noun or a pronoun, as in “somewhere”, “somewhat”, or “sometime”…
“Some” in Italian
As I mentioned before, some in Italian is translated as qualche. In English, “some” can be applied almost universally to indicate an indefinite quantity or quality.
The Italian equivalent qualche, instead, has a limited use case and doesn’t cover all the indefinite meanings that “some” can convey in English.
In most of the cases, it requires the use of a preposition to fulfil the meaning it aims at conveying. For instance, have a look at the sentence below:
Simona è uscita per andare da qualche parte.
Simona left to go somewhere.
By examining how “some” is combined with other words, like “where”, “how”, and “time”, we can explore how these expressions translate into Italian and how the concept of vagueness is managed in the language.
Let’s break down how “some” functions with different expressions in English and how qualche or other Italian expressions translate these meanings.
Combinations With “Qualche”
Somewhere in Italian
In English, the word “somewhere” implies an unspecified location. Italian translates this as da qualche parte. While the concept is similar, Italian often requires a bit more mental effort in terms of context.
As you can see, it makes use of the indefinite adjective qualche, but it also requires the preposition di and the noun parte.
Ho lasciato il libro da qualche parte.
I left the book somewhere.
Somewhat in Italian
In English, “somewhat” is used to describe degree, such as a slight amount or intensity. To express this concept, Italian uses un po’.
Sono un po’ stanco oggi.
I’m somewhat tired today.
Somehow in Italian
The word “somehow” in English specifically refers to an unspecified or unclear manner of accomplishing something. Italian makes use of the expression in qualche modo to convey this meaning, as in the following example:
In qualche modo, riusciremo a farlo.
Somehow, we’ll manage to do it.
As you might have noticed, this is structurally very similar to the Italian counterpart of “somewhere”, as it is composed of a preposition, qualche, and another word that is semantically linked to the purpose of the expression.
Sometime in Italian
“Sometime” in English carries the dual meaning of an unspecified time in the future or occasional instances. Italian has two different translations for that.
When referring to an indefinite time in the future, you can use prima o poi. This expression translates literally to “sooner or later”, but it captures the essence of a vague point in time. For example:
Prima o poi andrò in Italia.
I’ll go to Italy sometime.
For occasional instances, again we use qualche, specifically the expression qualche volta, which translates to “sometimes” or “occasionally”, as in:
Qualche volta vado al cinema.
I go to the cinema sometimes.
Someone, Somebody, Something in Italian
The concepts of “someone” and “something” in Italian are captured by the indefinite pronouns qualcuno and qualcosa. Unlike all the other expressions we saw so far, here Italian has unique and direct terms to express these meanings.
Qualcuno is used to refer to an unspecified person, encompassing both the English words “someone” and “somebody. Qualcosa expresses the idea of an indefinite object, event, or matter, just like “something” in English.
Qualcuno ha bussato alla porta.
Someone knocked at the door.
Ho bisogno di qualcosa per il mal di gola.
I need something for my sore throat.
Learning Indefiniteness in Italian
From a linguistic perspective, the Italian language leans towards specificity, even in situations where vagueness is involved. As you learned, qualche is one of those words that shows how Italian handles indefiniteness based on the context.
While in English we have unique words that make use of the combination of “some” with other terms, Italian cannot always directly translate those.
For me, as a language learner and instructor, this clarity within vagueness is one of the most fascinating aspects of Italian. The language doesn’t allow you to drift too far into ambiguity.
Instead, it asks you to anchor your expressions, providing just enough clarity to guide the listener without giving away all the details.
Understanding how to use these expressions, especially “qualche,” is key to mastering the subtleties of the Italian language. It’s this balance of clarity within vagueness that makes Italian both challenging and rewarding to learn.
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New Live Group Courses at Caminhos
Looking to Learn Portuguese Online in a way that feels real and interactive? Great news! Caminhos now offers Online Group Courses! In this article, you’ll learn how our new course formats bring the energy of Brazil to your screen through engaging, social, and effective language learning experiences.
There are many reasons to Learn Portuguese Online — what’s yours?
Perhaps you have a Brazilian family and want to feel closer to your culture. Maybe you’re planning your first visit to Brazil and want to speak with confidence. Or perhaps you’ve lived in Brazil before and want to keep the language (and memories) alive. Whatever your reason, we are here to bring Brazil to your home.
It’s been proven that social interaction is essential when learning a new language. Talking to locals and experiencing their emotions and social behaviors helps you understand and immerse yourself in Brazilian culture. At Caminhos, we take a unique approach, which is why we have created a variety of online courses. Our main goal is to make the online learning experience feel like a real classroom.
Many online students have expressed their desire to learn Brazilian Portuguese for various reasons. Some have a Brazilian parent or grandparent who wants to connect more closely with them. Others come from families where Portuguese is spoken, and they don’t want to feel left out of conversations.
Additionally, some students have planned trips to Brazil, during which they will visit multiple places. They know they won’t have time to study Portuguese while traveling, so they take classes beforehand to learn at least the basics. We even have testimonials from students who simply enjoy the language and want to learn it for that reason.
Extra reading: How to Learn Portuguese Faster: AI vs. Locals
How do the Online Group Courses work?
Our Online Group Courses utilize the same teaching methods and learning programs as our in-person classes at Caminhos. The same instructors who teach in our physical classrooms are also present in our online courses. You will participate in games, listen to music, and practice your Brazilian Portuguese, all from one interactive platform.Read more: Caminhos Methodology
This setup encourages students to interact with one another, exchange knowledge and experiences, and meet people from all around the world. We’re here to help you learn in a way that feels real, human, and alive, no matter where you are.
That’s why Caminhos now offers a variety of Online Group Courses, designed to fit your goals, lifestyle, and learning style. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to polish your conversation skills, we’ve got something for you:
Regular Group Course:
Structured, Interactive, and Fun
Our 5-week Online Group Course follows the same method and curriculum as our popular in-person intensive program in Rio de Janeiro. You’ll Learn Portuguese Online plus: have access to learning materials, receive a certificate upon completion, and enjoy live interaction with native teachers and classmates from around the world.
When?
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:30–5:30 PM (BRT)
What’s included?
Materials and certificate included
Ready to start?
Conversation Course:
Speak More, Fear Less
If your focus is on speaking naturally and confidently, this Conversation Online Course is for you. With real-time pronunciation practice, listening comprehension activities, and engaging topics, you’ll feel more at ease in real-life conversations. The teacher will be 100% focused on your talking skills.When?
Wednesdays, 3:30–5:00 PM (BRT)
What’s the duration?
Flexible duration — learn at your own pace
Ready to start?
Explore the conversation course here
Private Online Course:
Fully Personalized, Just for You
Prefer one-on-one learning? Our Private Online Portuguese Classes are tailored entirely to your needs and schedule. You’ll work closely with a native teacher to target your specific goals, whether you’re preparing for a move to Brazil, studying for a language exam, or just want to go deeper at your own pace.When?
Flexible schedule
How are the classes?
100% personalized lessons
Ready to start?
The first Regular Online Group Course starts on April 15!
Our next Regular Group Course kicks off on April 15 and it’s open to all levels, from A1 to C. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already on your way, there’s a spot for you in our vibrant online classroom.All of our online classes take place on LearnCube, one of the most effective and intuitive platforms for language learning. With interactive tools and a smooth user experience, it brings every class to life, making your learning journey dynamic, engaging, and truly connected.
So, whether you choose a structured group course, a conversation-focused class, or fully personalized private lessons, we’re here to help you learn Portuguese online in a way that feels real and purposeful.
Ready to join us?
Explore all our course options and sign up today.
Let’s bring the warmth of Brazil to your screen — one class at a time.
Caminhos Language Centre is the largest and most exciting Portuguese school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We have an excellent infrastructure, over 15 experienced Brazilian teachers, and a friendly multilingual support staff. We are the only school in Brazil able to offer Portuguese group courses throughout the year on 10 different levels. Moreover, our school also offers more than just Portuguese lessons for foreigners, we offer you the complete Rio de Janeiro experience. Every day we organize 100% free and fun activities for you to socialize and practice your Portuguese. We can also help you with a student visa for Brazil and accommodation in Rio de Janeiro. Follow us on Instagram for some Portuguese tips and news.
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Core Words Lesson #42 — Quiz Review
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