Our world today is highly connected through trade, travel, and the internet. Consequently, communication among different cultures, languages, and traditions is frequent. Language, particularly English, plays a critical role in this. Just imagine if you could talk to a person from any part of the world, because you both know English!

• Real-World Example: Picture yourself in an international conference or a video game online with players worldwide. Your knowledge of English could connect you with a person from Russia or China, regardless of your native language.

Languages serve as a translator for our thoughts and emotions. Ever tried to explain a feeling or an idea but couldn't find the exact words? That's because words are containers for our thoughts, and sometimes, they don't fit perfectly.

• Real-World Example: It's like when you see a beautiful sunset, and you say it's "breathtaking." The word is an attempt to translate your awe and joy into language others can understand.

But what happens when we move from one language to another? Something often gets lost in translation. It's not always easy to translate words, phrases, or idioms exactly from one language to another.

• Real-World Example: The phrase "It's raining cats and dogs" in English might confuse someone whose second language is English because this phrase doesn't exist in their language!