Flemme

Meaning: A total absence of motivation to do anything — a profound, almost existential reluctance to move, act, or engage.

Literally: Laziness / torpor

Origin: French; j'ai la flemme ('I can't be bothered'); a higher-order laziness than mere tiredness.

More French untranslatable words

Spleen A deep, existential ennui — a heavy, formless sadness and disgust with the world and ones…
Épanouissement The full flourishing of a person — blooming into your most complete, radiant self. More t…
Dépaysement The disorienting yet often pleasant feeling of being far from home, immersed in the unfam…
Flâner To wander a city slowly and aimlessly, savouring it with no destination in mind — the art…
Retrouvailles The joy of reuniting with someone after a long time apart.
L'esprit de l'escalier Thinking of the perfect comeback only after the moment has passed — on your way down the…

Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.

C'est une vraie chèvre They're hopelessly stubborn and infuriating — a goat that refuses to be moved.
Casse-pieds A massive bore or pain in the neck — someone who wears you down with their irritating way…
Espèce de patate You dim bulb — a potato being the very picture of inert, unthinking stodginess.

Keep exploring