So I guess this was prompted by 地図 officially showing up as a new word in Duolingo. I love it because it means map, but it’s literally “ground diagram/map/drawing.”
Other favorites include
黄色‐ yellow (yellow color)
地下鉄‐subway (ground beneath iron/“underground” iron)
I know this is only 3 examples, but it’s late and I have work tomorrow. But please do add your own favorites. I feel like having a grasp of literal meanings does wonders for remembering. Plus, they’re amusing as heck lol.
by lisamariefan