àmhais
The Gaelic word for ambition is àmhais.
àmhais is a noun meaning a desire.
Meaning: desire (noun)
Did you know?
- If you use àmhais to describe a person's character in a formal setting, it can sometimes imply that the person is driven by an insatiable or even unsettling urge.
- While 'ambition' in English often implies professional or status-driven goals, àmhais can carry a more visceral, internal connotation of a deep-seated craving or longing.
- Depending on the region, the pronunciation of the 'mh' in àmhais can vary from a soft 'v' sound to being completely silent.
Example conversation
Catriona and Angus are discussing their future career goals.
- CatrionaDè an àmhais agad airson an ath bhliadhna?What is your ambition for next year?
- AngusTha mo chridhe airson sàbhailt.My heart is for saving.
- CatrionaSin àmhais mhath, a Angus.That is a good ambition, Angus.
- AngusTapadh leat, a Chatriona.Thank you, Catriona.
