Decoder
The Secret to Getting What You Need in Ghana
Special “protocol” treatment has become a way of life for the privileged few.
Kòltiz, a Patriotic Haitian Practice of Solidarity
Haitian collaborative groups affirm that “every human is human.”
The Malaise Poisoning French Politics
There’s a word for the anger and disappointment French voters are feeling: “seum.”
Macron’s Vulgarity Is a Big Deal
What the French president’s choice of swear word reveals about his style of governance.
The Good, the Bad, and the Bimyou
Neither yes nor no, this idea can take you far in Japanese politics.
How New Zealand Recognizes the People There First
The Maori term “tangata whenua” conveys a powerful relationship with the land.
Age and the Agbayas
One word perfectly captures the clash between Nigeria’s leaders and its booming young population.
America Doesn’t Need Heroes
Why Germany’s concept of Zivilcourage is one for the Biden era.
‘Baizuo’ Is a Chinese Word Conservatives Love
Whether you support Xi or Trump, sneering at progressives is a shared hobby.
The Art of the Jumla
Why India’s Narendra Modi keeps getting away with failure.
Who Wants to Be a Thousandaire?
Spain’s “mileurista” generation is a portent of things to come for the global economy.
In Chile, One Word Defines the Political Revolution
The Chilean term “facho” evokes the image of Chile’s fascist past—but also of present-day tenacity that thumbs its nose at institutional power.
How Muscle Works in Moscow
Understanding “krysha,” the word that explains why Russian life is all about having the right kind of protection.
The 3 Most Polarizing Words in India
“Jai Shri Ram” was meant to be a celebration of a Hindu deity. But the phrase is turning into hate speech—and a dog whistle for attacks on Muslims.
British Elites Know Who Isn’t Quite Their Type
The term “posh” appeals to foreigners, but the British know there are teeth underneath the smile.
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