Decoder
Explaining a word and the culture that uses it.
An Atrevida Is Best Avoided
The Portuguese word that exposes the country’s lingering double standards on gender.
Wartime Russians Fall Back on an Ancient Survival Strategy
Conformism and acquiescence have a long tradition in a culture of chaos and repression.
The Word That Captures Nigerians’ Feelings About the Future
“Japa” contains both the hope and the pain of wanting to leave one’s country behind for better opportunities.
The Word That Defines What It Means to Be Ukrainian Now
Svidomy, once used to locate people on the political spectrum, has come to signify wartime unity.
How Thai Activists Troll the Monarchy
Protesters have adopted humor and wit to critique the country’s politics.
How ‘Bakla’ Explains the Struggle for Queer Identity in the Philippines
The Tagalog word eludes Western concepts of gender and sexuality—and offers a window into LGBTQ+ Filipinos’ quest for acceptance.
The Secret to Getting What You Need in Ghana
Special “protocol” treatment has become a way of life for the privileged few.
Kòltiz, a Patriotic Haitian Practice of Solidarity
Haitian collaborative groups affirm that “every human is human.”
The Malaise Poisoning French Politics
There’s a word for the anger and disappointment French voters are feeling: “seum.”
Macron’s Vulgarity Is a Big Deal
What the French president’s choice of swear word reveals about his style of governance.
The Good, the Bad, and the Bimyou
Neither yes nor no, this idea can take you far in Japanese politics.
How New Zealand Recognizes the People There First
The Maori term “tangata whenua” conveys a powerful relationship with the land.
Age and the Agbayas
One word perfectly captures the clash between Nigeria’s leaders and its booming young population.
America Doesn’t Need Heroes
Why Germany’s concept of Zivilcourage is one for the Biden era.
‘Baizuo’ Is a Chinese Word Conservatives Love
Whether you support Xi or Trump, sneering at progressives is a shared hobby.
