Are you curious about how to say “doll” in various languages around the world? Here in this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express this beloved toy’s name in different cultures. Whether you’re a traveler, a linguistics enthusiast, or simply interested in expanding your vocabulary, this article will provide you with tips, examples, and insights. Let’s embark on this linguistic journey together!
Table of Contents
1. Doll in English
In English, we universally refer to this toy as a doll. Whether it’s a fashion doll, a rag doll, or a baby doll, the term “doll” remains consistent across various English-speaking countries. It is both the formal and informal way to address this toy.
2. Muñeca in Spanish
Spanish is spoken by millions of people across the globe, and in this beautiful language, “doll” is commonly known as “muñeca.” The term “muñeca” is used in all regions where Spanish is spoken, whether it’s in Spain, Mexico, Argentina or the Philippines. You can use this term in both formal and informal settings.
3. Poupée in French
In the romantic language of French, “doll” is translated as “poupée.” The word “poupée” is used across different regions where French is spoken, such as France, Canada, Switzerland, and many African countries. It is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts.
4. Puppen in German
German, the language known for its precision, uses the term “Puppen” to refer to dolls. Whether you’re in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, the word “Puppen” can be used interchangeably for formal and informal situations.
5. Bambole in Italian
Italians affectionately refer to dolls as “bambole.” This term is used nationwide across Italy, making it suitable for all formal and informal conversations. So, if you’re visiting Rome, Florence, or any other Italian city, remember to ask for “bambole.”
6. Кукла (Kukla) in Russian
Russian, a widely spoken Slavic language, has its own term for dolls – “Kukla” (Кукла). Whether you’re in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, or any other Russian-speaking country, you can use “Kukla” in any context without worrying about formality.
7. Boneca in Portuguese
In Portuguese, dolls are called “boneca.” This term is used in all Portuguese-speaking countries, including Brazil, Portugal, Angola, and Mozambique. It is suitable for both formal and informal occasions.
8. Folle in Haitian Creole
Haitian Creole, spoken in Haiti and parts of the Caribbean, has its own unique term for dolls – “folle.” You can use this term in all situations, whether formal or informal, when conversing with native Haitian Creole speakers.
9. ドール (Dōru) in Japanese
The Japanese language, rich in culture and diversity, calls dolls “ドール” pronounced as “Dōru”. This term is understood throughout Japan and can be used in any setting, formal or informal.
10. Lutka in Croatian
In the Croatian language, dolls are referred to as “lutka.” This term is used in Croatia and other Croatian-speaking regions, both in formal and informal contexts.
11. Nukke in Finnish
Finnish, a Finno-Ugric language spoken in Finland, identifies dolls as “nukke.” This term is commonly used across the country, regardless of the conversational setting.
12. Κούκλα (Koukla) in Greek
Greek, a language that dates back to ancient times, has its own term for dolls – “Κούκλα” (Koukla). This word is used in Greece and Cyprus, and is applicable to both formal and informal situations.
13. בובה (Buba) in Hebrew
Hebrew, an ancient language rooted in the Middle East, has its unique term for dolls – “בובה” (pronounced Buba). Whether you’re in Israel or conversing with Hebrew speakers elsewhere, you can use this term formally or informally.
14. Punukka in Malayalam
Malayalam, a Dravidian language spoken in the Indian state of Kerala, labels dolls as “Punukka.” The term “Punukka” is widely understood throughout Kerala and can be used in all speech situations.
15. Docka in Swedish
Swedish, the language spoken in Sweden and parts of Finland, uses the word “docka” for dolls. It is universally recognized in Swedish-speaking regions and can be used formally or informally.
16. ਗੁੱਡੀ (Guddi) in Punjabi
Punjabi, a language spoken in Punjab, India, and Pakistan, calls dolls “ਗੁੱਡੀ” (pronounced Guddi). This term is used in both formal and informal settings when conversing in Punjabi.
17. Lelle in Estonian
Estonian, a Finno-Ugric language spoken in Estonia, uses the word “lelle” for dolls. It is widely recognized and can be used in both formal and informal conversations.
18. Búp Bê in Vietnamese
In Vietnamese, “búp bê” is used to describe dolls. Regardless of the context, whether formal or informal, this term is applicable throughout Vietnam.
19. Kukull in Albanian
In Albanian, dolls are known as “kukull.” This term can be used in Albania and other Albanian-speaking regions. It is appropriate for both formal and informal situations.
20. บ้านตุ๊กตา (Baandtuktaa) in Thai
The Thai language refers to dolls as “บ้านตุ๊กตา” (pronounced Baan-dtuk-taa). Whether you’re in Thailand or conversing with Thai speakers, this term can be used formally or informally.
Conclusion
Language is a powerful tool that allows us to connect, communicate, and explore different cultures. In this guide, we have covered how to say “doll” in various languages, both formally and informally. From muñeca in Spanish to baandtuktaa in Thai, the terms may differ, but the love for dolls is universal. So, the next time you come across a doll enthusiast, surprise them with your knowledge of how to say “doll” in their language!
Remember, when traveling or interacting with people from different backgrounds, embracing their language and customs can go a long way in building meaningful connections. Keep exploring, learning, and spreading the joy of dolls across the globe!
