Nelson Mandela once said, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” These words have stayed with me, leading me to reflect on how language is much more than just a means of communication. It’s an essential part of culture, identity, and how we connect with each other on a deeper level.

Words That Carry Culture

The words we choose often reveal the rich history and values of different cultures. Let’s take “hospital” as an example. This single word is rendered differently across languages, each with its own cultural perspective:

• English: hospital, derived from the Latin hospitium, meaning “a hospitable place,” once associated with lodging for the needy.

• Norwegian: sykehus, translating to “a house for the sick.”

• Russian: больница [bol’nitsa], “a place for the sick.”

• Ukrainian: лікарня [likarnya], meaning “a place where they treat.”

The Ukrainian term stands out to me. It emphasizes healing and treatment, rather than simply focusing on sickness. It’s not just about where the sick go; it’s about where they get better. This subtle distinction speaks volumes about cultural perspectives on care and recovery.

Language and Perception

These nuances in words reveal more than just linguistic differences; they expose different ways of viewing the world. For instance, a phrase like “hello, how are you” in English or “hei, hvordan går det” in Norwegian might be a casual greeting. But for someone from an Eastern European background, like a Ukrainian, such questions feel deeply personal — they expect an honest answer, not just small talk.

I still find myself puzzled by these phrases. Should I respond in-depth or just smile and say, “Good, thanks”? In Ukrainian culture, when someone asks how you are, they genuinely want to know. This difference often makes “small talk” in Western cultures feel superficial, even a bit empty.

The Impact of Language on Identity

My understanding of how language shapes perception deepened during my academic journey and even more so amid Ukraine’s cultural revival in response to Russia’s invasion. Having grown up in the shadow of the Soviet Union, I’m keenly aware of how language can be a tool for both suppression and expression.

Language, to me, is more than a medium for conversation; it’s the key to my identity. Each language I speak carries a different emotional tone and color:

• Ukrainian resonates more deeply, connecting me to my cultural roots and reflecting who I am at my core.

• Russian was my family language growing up, shaping most of my daily communication.

• English is my versatile language — it’s for business, studies, entertainment, and even a bit of flirtation.

Recently, a multilingual friend likened the experience of speaking different languages to a kind of “schizophrenia.” I get that. Inside me live multiple personas: a melodic Ukrainian, a sharp Russian, a playful English, and now, a clumsy but lovable Norwegian. Speaking different languages not only changes how I sound but also how I think and feel.

Language Beyond Words

Speaking another language is more than just knowing the words; it’s about adopting the gestures, habits, and even body language that go along with it. For instance:

• Italians express themselves with active gesticulation.

• Japanese speakers often avoid direct eye contact as a sign of respect.

• Bulgarians have unique gestures for agreement and denial, nodding differently than most cultures.

These cultural nuances aren’t always obvious but are crucial for mutual understanding. Language learning isn’t just about words; it’s about understanding the culture, habits, and non-verbal cues that bring those words to life.

Language: A Path to Deeper Connection

Language is more than a tool; it’s a bridge that connects minds and hearts. Understanding the cultural nuances behind language and embracing its complexities can deepen our connections and enrich our perspectives. As I continue my journey as a multilingual individual and writer, I’m constantly reminded of how language shapes not just communication, but our very perception of the world.