Lost in translation

by Jennie McGhan
When one stops to think about words and what they mean, there may be a surprise in store for them.
In our current culture, we often use common words or phrases from other languages. “Adios” is commonly used when we are saying goodbye.
What we don’t think about is the actual translation of this word. The true definition of “Adios” is “go with God.” “Dios” means God in Spanish, the “a” indicates to go.
The term has been used for ages. In Spain, many did not use the term lightly until the early 20th century. Prior to wishing someone “Adios,” the term “Salud” was more common. This word means cheers.
“Despedida” is defined in the Spanish-English dictionary as the word used for goodbye or farewell.
Another way one might part with another would be in using the phrase “Hasta luego.”
Just as in the English language, there are many different ways of greeting or departing from another person.
I am certain there are other languages in which I might find the literal translation to be quite fascinating, but I am finding I am rather fond of the word “Adios” because I truly feel that I should be wishing others to “Go with God.”
I am a person who believes Christ is my protector and loving others, wishing them the same protection is a fine way to depart.
Another language, German, is often used when someone sneezes. We often say, “Gesundheit.” This word means health in English. But, are we aware we are saying this? Someone who actually knows the German language may know this fact.
In English, we commonly say, “bless you,” if a person sneezes. Again, it is a phrase taken for granted in many circles. I wonder how many people actually wish the person doing the sneezing to be blessed by God.
Stopping to think about the words and phrases we often speak out of habit or otherwise may give us a better understanding of what actually leaves our mouths when we speak to others. I believe it is just as important to think about all the words we use…the words may be helpful or hurtful, depending on what we mean by them and how they are translated.