Two days ago, the word of the day was defecar (to defecate). It is something we all do. However, it is not something we usually talk about in polite conversation – and it’s unlikely to come up in Spanish class!
Years ago, when I was attending daily Spanish lessons, I had a bladder infection and needed to go to the toilet every half hour. My teacher was a true hero! He noticed that something was up, so he decided to introduce us to some new vocabulary and colloquial phrases. He also explained the level (also known as age related appropriateness) of various expressions related to human biological functions. Most importantly, he included the correct phrases to use for the dreaded doctor’s visit in a foreign country.
Some of the students giggled at the time. I, on the other hand, was taking notes as if my life depended on it. In conversation after class, another student mentioned that it would have really helped them a few months earlier when they had the same issue.
That is why it is important that, sometimes, words like these are brought out and we practice them. Rather than recoiling from or giggling at a verb that may be used less often, cherish it instead. It may be important one day.
