Did you know that the sound you make when you sneeze varies depending on your language? Although the act of sneezing is universal, the sound we make is deeply influenced by cultural and linguistic factors. This uniqueness has caught the attention of many, including illustrator James chapman, who created a series of illustrations that exemplify how to “say” a sneeze in different languages around the world. This invites us to reflect on an everyday act that, although it may seem simple, is full of cultural diversity and linguistic curiosities.
Why do we sneeze and how does this phenomenon occur?
Sneezing is a reaction natural and involuntary action of our body to release irritating particles from the nose or throat. This defense mechanism acts as a kind of "reset" that clears our airways. What many people don't know is that A sneeze can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, and the expelled particles can travel several meters. This fact also explains why it is so important to cover your mouth when sneezing, especially during cold or seasonal allergy seasons. Here you can [learn more about how to prevent colds](https://www.bezzia.com/how-to-prevent-the-cold/).
The sound of sneezing: a universal or cultural act?
It's easy to assume that the sound of a sneeze is universal, but in reality, it is shaped by the language and culture. The onomatopoeia, words that imitate sounds, are key here. While in Spanish we say “Achís!” or “Achú!”, in English we say “Achoo!”, in Japanese “Hakushon!” and in French “Atchoum!”. Each language adapts the sound of the sneeze according to its phonetic and cultural rules.
According to the partially deaf journalist Charlie swinbourne, deaf people do not actually make a sound when they sneeze, which reinforces the idea that sneezing onomatopoeia is more of a cultural habit than a physiological necessity. This also makes us reflect on how we perceive sounds and our relationship with them.
How do you respond to a sneeze in different countries?
Aside from the sound of the sneeze, the way we respond varies greatly from country to country. These responses have roots historical, religious and cultural:
- In Spanish-speaking countries, it is common to say "Enjoy!»Or«Jesus!«. These expressions have religious origins, linked to the idea of protecting the sneezer from evil spirits.
- In English, we use «Bless you" or "God bless you", a custom that arose during the bubonic plague as a desire for divine protection.
- In French, we say "To your hearts' content", meaning "to your wishes", showing a more secular and kind approach to the well-being of others.
- In German, «Health» emphasizes the desire for good health.
- In Japan, they often ask "Daijoubu?", which means "Are you okay?"
In some Asian countries, such as China or Korea, it is not common to respond to a sneeze, which demonstrates how varied customs are in different regions. [Find out more about how cultural customs affect our daily practices here.](https://www.bezzia.com/spring-allergies-which-are-the-most-frequent/)
Historical curiosities about sneezing
The act of sneezing has been linked to beliefs and superstitions throughout history. During the 6th century, when the bubonic plague was ravaging Europe, Pope Gregory I declared “God bless you” as an obligatory response, as it was believed that sneezing could be a sign of impending illness.
In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, a sneeze was seen as a divine omen. According to mythology, sneezing often meant good fortune or that the gods were on one's side. These beliefs have evolved, and although medical explanations predominate today, the responses and rituals associated with sneezing are still deeply rooted in our culture.
How do you sneeze in other languages?
Illustrator James Chapman has compiled several onomatopoeia for sneezing in different languages. Here are some striking examples:
- English: Look!
- Spanish: Achoo or Achoo!
- French: Atchoum!
- Japanese: Hakushon!
- Russian: Apchkhi!
- Korean: Eichi!
Thus, it is clear that the sound of a sneeze, although spontaneous, is influenced by the language we speak and the phonetic rules that govern it.
Cultural influence on sneezing
Another fascinating aspect is how sneezes tend to be “modified” by cultural patterns. In many cases, people replicate sounds they have heard since childhood, creating a connection between the language and bodily reflexes. This is especially visible in bilingual communities, where the same person may sneeze with “Achú!” in Spanish and “Achoo!” in English.
For deaf people, according to Charlie Swinbourne, sneezing can be soundless. This highlights the capricious connection between body and culture: the absence of a “voluntary” sound suggests that the noise associated with sneezing is not essential.
Sneezing, a seemingly mundane act, is a unique display of how biology, language and culture converge in fascinating ways. From the physiological factors that trigger it to the cultural responses and historical superstitions surrounding it, this small gesture tells us a lot about the diversity of human beings.
Next time you sneeze, remember that this everyday act connects people from different cultures in unexpected ways, showing that even the most trivial thing can have a rich history behind it.