Every culture has its own way of describing that special "X-factor" - a life energy certain people or places exude. These words are in a creative feedback loop with their culture - they reflect their culture, and at the same time inform their culture. In the Psychology Today article, Charm By Any Other Name, they list several cultural expressions of this certain way of being.
Yiddish has elbowed its way into English with "chutzpah," while the French bubble over with "joie de vivre," "elan," "savoir faire" and other high-spirited bon mots. Indeed, many languages have their own X-factored terms that describe a unique constellation of desirable traits, if not success pure and simple. Such words reveal as much about the culture that prizes them as they do about the individual who possesses them.
* Akamai (Hawaiian): Smart, on the ball, savvy. Richard Branson is "akamai."
* Brioso (Spanish): Fiery, spirited and charming.
* Sabrosa (Spanish): Literally "flavorful" or "zesty," this refers to someone who is
lively, complicated and may have a naughty streak.
* Dushevnost (Russian): Soulful and deeply emotive, but also warm, open,
gregarious and passionate.
* Gemuetlich (German): Pleasant, cozy, amiable—a person, place or
experience can be gemuetlich.
* Hyggelig (Danish): Similar to "gemuetlich," this adjective captures the
easygoing Danes' desire for a relaxed atmosphere.
* Mi ren (Chinese): Fascinating, enchanting, charming, tempting.
* Okuyukashii (Japanese): Elegant and modest, usually in regard to women.
* Shibui (Japanese): Cool, understated. Usually used in reference to an older man.
* Sprezzatura (Italian): Deliberate nonchalance. The art of making something
difficult appear effortless and beautiful.
* Unesidima ne sithozela (Xhosa—South African tribal language): Someone with
an aura, who is well respected and held in high esteem.
