Category: Languages

Language Facts for Everyone

As we are in the “Language” category, let’s talk about some interesting language trivia. But even before that, let’s learn some basic facts about language to have a full grasp on the subject. A language is a system of communication that allows people to express themselves and understand one another.

Trivia about language etymology

The word ‘language’ is derived from the Latin word “lingua”, which means tongue. The interesting trivia about language is that until the 17th century, it wasn’t used to refer to a system of communication.

Facts about language categorization

Nowadays, the language is considered as one of the following:

    • A living natural language (such as English)
    • A dead natural language (such as Latin)
    • A constructed language (such as Esperanto)
    • A dialect continuum (such as the Scandinavian languages)
    • Code used for communication between computers, such as Morse code or binary
    • One of the most interesting language facts is that languages don’t have to be the real historical ones to be popular and alive… we’re talking of course about fictional languages.

Fictional Languages

Fictional languages are the ones that are created for the sake of the artistic work. They have a lot of uses in the world of storytelling, such as to create an exotic feel and to provide a sense of depth to the universe. There is a lot of interesting language trivia about such languages. Let’s focus on the most popular ones.

Fictional Languages Facts: Categories

There are many different types of fictional languages, and they can be broadly classified into three categories: constructed, naturalistic, and engineered. Fun language facts about it is that they are made up entirely by their creators and don’t exist anywhere in nature. These types of languages usually involve a lot of thought put into their structure, grammar, vocabulary and culture.
Naturalistic languages on the other hand are based on real-world language structures but with added elements or influences from other cultures or places. The fun language trivia about that is that these types of fictional language can be found in various forms, like Tolkien’s Elvish or George R. R. Martin’s Dothraki language for example. Engineered languages on the other hand are based on real-world language structures. Fun trivia about language of this type is that it has elements or influences from other cultures

offesive-gestures

9 Gestures To Avoid While Abroad

Robert Faber

Are you planning a trip to a country you’ve never been to? 

One of the most important things to do before traveling is to research the culture and customs of the country you are visiting. This is especially important when it comes to gestures.

Why is that? Well, gestures are a universal language that we all use on a daily basis. They are also an important part of our culture and identity. 

However, there are some gestures to avoid while abroad. They may not be offensive in your country, but are in another. 

This is why it is important to be aware of these nuances when traveling abroad. You don’t want to offend people and cause serious problems on the trip of your dreams!

But don’t worry. In this article, we’ll learn which mannerisms and gestures to avoid and see how to avoid rude gestures when traveling.
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7 situations where Vasco Translator will break language barriers for you

Robert Faber

Did you know that there are over 7000 languages in the world?

Yes, that many.

But, relax! You only need to know a few of them to actually get along in today’s world.

However, learning even one language may be a burdensome task.

Also, saying to yourself I need a translator every time you stumble across a language barrier won’t work like a charm.

And why should we, human beings, close ourselves in the inner circle of our native tongue speakers? We could meet so many people, visit so many places, and learn so many things about the world we live in!

But the language barrier, you may say.

Well, no matter if you’re speaking with locals from another country or ordering food from a menu that you don’t understand, language barriers can be a real obstacle.

So, in this article, you’ll learn about 7 different situations where Vasco Translator device breaks these barriers for you.

Let’s start!
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Simply the Best! What is the most efficient language?

Robert Faber

How to speak volumes while saying little to none?

Well, language efficiency is something that we may not be aware of enough to appreciate it. And while each language’s main function is to convey meaning, some do it better than others.

In this article, we’ll find out about the following:

  • What is an efficient language?
  • What is the most efficient language in the world?
  • What is the most efficient spoken language?
  • What is the most efficient written language?
  • What language is a language with the fewest words?
  • Why can’t we make a new language more efficient and easy to learn?
  • Is there an efficient invented language?

Let’s start!
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The Ring on the table with a fireplace in the background

The Languages of Middle-earth

Robert Faber

Do you like learning fictional languages? Do you study the vocabulary of Klingon, the pronunciation of Dothraki, or the grammar of Na’vi? 

Well, then you should know that all fictional languages we know today were inspired by the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, a mastermind behind the world of Middle-earth.

So, what language did Tolkien come up with? Or, maybe there was more than one?

J.R.R. Tolkien is thought to be an inventor of artistic languages in general. These linguistic constructs are supposed to be as convincing as real-world languages, so they usually have their own vocabulary, grammar, and history. 

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Dice scattered on the board against a background of fantasy figures.

DnD Languages 5e: Full List of Standard and Exotic Languages

Robert Faber

From Elvish in Lord of the Rings to Dothraki in Game of Thrones, fictional fantasy languages have become an integral part of pop culture.

These languages are a fascinating way for authors and players alike to explore new worlds and create memorable stories.

But at least in some aspects, there is no such case as Dungeons and Dragons (DnD). With its own unique set of fantasy languages that can be used to create distinct cultures and give characters life-like personalities, it is one of the most interesting instances of fictional linguistic universes.

Speak More Languages Now

Today, we’re going to learn more about them. See what subjects we’ll dive into:
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Esperanto Language: Is it Still Alive?

Robert Faber

This is a story of breaking language barriers, but probably in a slightly different way than you would expect.

In this article, you’ll find out about a tongue that was supposed to be a universal language for the entire population.

Excited? So, without further ado, let’s dive into the history and essence of the Esperanto language.

In this article, you’ll learn:

  • Who created the Esperanto language.
  • The history of the Esperanto language.
  • If there are any Esperanto speakers.
  • If so, then how many people speak Esperanto?
  • If you can actually learn and speak Esperanto.
  • If it’s similar to any of the existing languages.

Let’s start!

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What are false friends in linguistics?

Watch Out for False Friends… When Learning a Foreign Language!

Robert Faber

This is not another article about how to recognize and deal with fake friends in your life. Here, we’ll talk about a different kind of struggle. Anyone who learns a foreign language needs to watch out for so-called false friends. No, they are not people who try to sabotage your effort by giving harmful advice. Let’s just say for now that they cannot be treated lightly and can cause very serious problems in communication.  In this article, we’ll get into some details about this phenomenon and find false friends in various languages.

Having read this article, you’ll know:

  • The Definition of the term “false friends”.
  • When it first appeared in linguistics.
  • How false friends are created.
  • Some popular examples of false friends.

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When and where will we reach 8 Billion people on Earth?

Robert Faber

Actually, any day now. Although it is impossible to know precisely the total number of people on the planet at any given time, and who or where will be the 8th million baby being born or their language or nationality, the United Nations has declared the 15th of November 2022 to be the official estimated date it happens. This sets an unprecedented milestone in human development and world population growth which is both celebrated and shunned by both popular opinion and the science communities around the world.

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Author: Ollie Upton / HBO. All rights reserved. HBO® and all related programs are the property of Home Box Office, Inc.

Languages of Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon — High Valyrian, Dothraki and more

Robert Faber

To say that Game of Thrones was a popular TV series is to say nothing about it. It was adapted from the bestselling “Ice & Fire” saga by American author, George R.R. Martin, and aired on HBO in 2010-2019 through 8 seasons.

The show’s presence in the media was a worldwide phenomenon, influencing almost all sectors of the current pop culture.

At its peak, the show was broadcasted in 207 countries and averaged almost 44 million viewers for its final season (Forbes, 2019 & Hollywood Reporter, 2022).

Even though the ending of the show left most fans disappointed, the prequel show House of the Dragon has attracted the audience of 20 million for its first aired episode on August 23rd, 2022. Needless to say, it bodes well for the franchise’s future.

As dive deep in the plot lines of Westeros, we once again encounter its fictional languages, like High Valyrian. Hearing it might sound weirdly familiar for some – and not just because it was already present in Game of Thrones.

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How to learn a new language fast + QUIZ

Robert Faber

Language learning is surely an interesting direction in one’s self development. However, it may also be quite challenging. Memorizing new words, studying grammar rules, and practicing correct pronunciation can be really tough. Not to mention acquiring conversational fluency in the language of your choice.

Fortunately, there are lots of helpful tools that will make language learning easier and more enjoyable.

In this article, we’ll explain how to learn a new language fast, along with presenting the methods of studying that can provide the best results.

Nevertheless, you may also be the person who finds language learning too difficult. Not a problem at all! We will present an alternative to language learning which is extremely helpful.

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People of different ethnicity are gathered around the globe, smiling.

What is the most spoken language in the world?

Robert Faber

There are many spoken languages in the world, although this number is dropping every year.

In the era of globalization, less spoken languages tend to get dominated by the most spoken languages in the world and the rarest ones are known by just a few native speakers.

Let’s take a look at what is the most spoken language in the world today, used both by native and taught users.

We will also try to determine if this trend might change in the future, so stay with us for more insight!

 

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Europe by night - Planet Earth - City lights as seen from space.

Top countries in Europe for working abroad

Robert Faber

Are you searching for abroad jobs in Europe?

Going overseas might be a great idea to find both work opportunities and get to know the world’s cultural heritage better.

Not sure which one is the best choice when working abroad in European Union?

Don’t worry, you have come to the right place. Today, we’ll take a look at which country offers the best jobs if you want to start working abroad.

We’ll consider the following:

  • minimum wage
  • state of job market
  • work residence requirements
  • social security
  • facilitation for non EU citizens

Let’s go and find out which is the best country to work abroad!

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translating texts app

An Overview of the Best Free Translator Apps

Robert Faber

As business and communication stretch further and further beyond borders, there is an increasing need for high-quality translation. While traditionally experienced translators were hired to produce content in foreign languages, using a translator app can offer a quicker and cheaper experience for private users and businesses alike.  

But with so many apps available, which one is the best free translator app to use? In today’s article, we’d like to introduce you to some useful free tools for translating that will help you communicate with people coming from foreign cultures, while also giving you the ability to learn as you go.

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Minion

What language do Minions speak?

Robert Faber

Minion Language

Ever since 2010, when Despicable Me came into theaters, Minions have been settling in our hearts for good. These cute yellow creatures started by being just sidekicks in the first movie, but now they are main protagonists of their own sequels.  The newest one, Minions: Rise of Gru, haWhat are the origins of the words and phrases used by Minions?s premiered on June 16th around the world and is already acclaimed by fans and critics alike. However, the more we love these heartwarming creatures, the more we want to know what they are talking about. Do Minions speak a real language? And if so, what are the words and phrases that they use in the movies? Let’s take a look at what language do minions speak.

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A photo of basque people dressed in traditional clothes and dancing on a city square.

Fun facts about languages — the Basque (or Vasco) language

Robert Faber

We have so many languages in our voice translators. Over 70 as a matter of fact. It means that using Vasco devices allows you to understand or be understood by about 90% of the world population. From English, German and French to languages you’ve probably never heard of, like Basque language or Malayalam, Vasco language translators are designed to provide complete multilingual experience in all of them. Whether you want to use them all and speak like a local anywhere in the world or just start memorizing vocabulary with the Vasco language learning app, it’s always worth knowing something more about what we offer. In this story, we will focus on the Basque language. So grab your favourite cup with a warm beverage, sit comfortably and learn some interesting facts about one of the most interesting languages in the world.

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How many languages are there

How many languages are there in the world?

Robert Faber

Have you ever wondered how many languages are spoken in the world? If you had to guess, you might say…100? 200? This would be most people’s estimate. In fact, when people are asked to list how many language there are to their knowledge, the average is only around 10. That’s because most people are psychologically predisposed to be aware of only the most commonly used or learned languages around them. And the number of written languages of the world is yet another question altogether.

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How many people speak more than one language?

Robert Faber

How many people speak more than one language? That’s a curious question asked by many people, with no clear answer. Since there is no world census, one can only guess. What is the term for the use of more than one language, you may ask? Most people refer to this as bilingualism for the ability to speak two languages, or multilingualism for the skill to speak 3 or more languages.

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