beagan
/ˈb̥ekan/
The English phrase "a little" is translated into Gaelic as beagan.
beagan is used to describe something existing to a small extent or degree. It functions as an adverb or as a quantifier for uncountable nouns, such as water or languages.
Meaning: to a small extent or degree (adv)
How does it change in a sentence?
When used as a quantifier, beagan is applied to uncountable nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈb̥ekan/
Did you know?
- In some dialects, beagan can be used as a polite understatement to soften a request or a criticism, making a statement seem less blunt.
- Because beagan acts as a noun meaning 'a small quantity', the Gaelic sentence structure treats 'a little' as a thing possessed rather than just a modifier.
- The word beagan is a linguistic cousin to the Manx word beggan and the Irish word beagán, showing how the Goidelic languages shared this specific way of expressing smallness.
Examples in context
- Tha beagan Gàidhlig agam.I speak a little Scottish Gaelic.This sentence shows how to use beagan to indicate a small amount of a language spoken.Tatoeba #847768 by marloncori, translation #847770 by marloncori
- Chan eil ach beagan Gàidhlig agam.I only speak a little Gaelic.This sentence illustrates using beagan to express that you only have a small amount of a language.Tatoeba #5745598 by Catriona, translation #5745600 by Catriona
- Chan eil ach beagan Fraingis agam.I only speak a little French.This sentence shows the use of beagan when describing a limited amount of French.Tatoeba #5749902 by Catriona, translation #2451533 by CK
- Tá an aimsir beagán bídeach inniu, ná bí fluich ort!The weather is a bit showery today, don't get wet!
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Angus and Mairead are discussing their tiredness after a long walk.
- AngusA bheil thu sgìth, a Mhairead?Are you tired, Mairead?
- MaireadTha mi beagan sgìth, a Ainghas.I am a little tired, Angus.
- AngusAn tògaidh sinn beagan sgaile?Shall we take a little break?
- MaireadSin eòla math.That is a good idea.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry beagan, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
