Does the word “saudade” only exist in Portuguese?

Longing: feeling very well known and very difficult to be described. In many other languages, there are several ways to describe and express saudade, however, the Portuguese language apparently became the only one capable of translating this feeling into an entry. And not only translated it, but made it an essential presence in countless artistic expressions.

But is it really, as they say, the word saudade only exists in Portuguese? Check out the full article and find out!

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How to express longing in other languages?

The word "saudade" originates from Latin, and, because of that, it does exist in other languages. Just as Portuguese was derived from Latin, so were other languages. In Spanish, there is the word “soledad” to treat longing, or “soledat” in Catalan.

However, where variation actually occurs is in relation to the

translation. In many cases, these words symbolize meanings such as nostalgia, principally in relation to home, or native land. This is a very different meaning to what we are used to using the term “saudade” in Portuguese, the one sung by Toquinho and Vinicius in: “and speaking of saudade, where are you going?” you? Where are your eyes that we don't see; where is that body? that left me dead with so much pleasure”, in which it is clear that it is someone.

Thus, in addition to nostalgia, the saudade of the Portuguese language allows describing the nostalgia for people, animals, times, places, feelings, among other possibilities. It is comprehensive and expansive.

In addition, it can also be observed that, when mentioned in Portuguese, the word saudade receives a positive connotation, becoming clear when, when said, many outline a beautiful smile on their face. After all, nostalgia can be sweet when it comes to someone you love and care for.

Through this analysis, it can be understood that the word “saudade” does exist in other languages. However, what really changes are its meaning and translation. And, to kill that longing, “you could show up to me in those same places”, right?