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The Positive Lexicography Project

Jouissance! Suaimhneas croi! Mechaye! Bazodee! Around the world, there are many ways to express joy, as The Positive Lexicography Project reminds us. This database curates "an evolving index of untranslatable words related to wellbeing from across the world's languages." Words can be explored by theme (such as Relationships, Feelings, or Character) or by Languages (with over 100 included). Each word in the database is color-coded by linguistic origin and includes a brief definition, helping users expand their vocabulary and worldview. For example, under Aesthetics, a subcategory of Feelings, visitors may discover "leggiadria," an Italian word for "loveliness," and "iki," a Japanese word for the principle of "simplicity." Or, under Love, a subcategory of Relationships, readers can delve into expressions of affection, from the Greek "storge" ("care and affection," between family members) to Arabic "ishq" ("true, all-consuming love,"). Select words also link out to other dictionaries and resources. By clicking the "Submit a word" box in the upper right-hand corner, users also have the option of filling out an online form to add their own contributions to the list. The project was researched by positive psychology lecturer Tim Lomas, designed by graphic designer Joana Patrasc, and developed by interface engineer Maynard Russell.
Archived Scout Publication URL
Scout Publication
GEM Subject
Language
Date of Scout Publication
March 13th, 2020
Date Of Record Creation
March 3rd, 2020 at 9:25am
Date Of Record Release
March 3rd, 2020 at 3:14pm
Resource URL Clicks
124
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