araf
/ˈarav/
The Welsh word araf means moving or operating at a low speed.
araf is used to describe something that is slow or occurring at a low speed.
How does it change in a sentence?
To use araf as an adverb meaning 'slowly', it is typically preceded by the particle yn, forming the phrase yn araf.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈarav/
Did you know?
- While araf describes physical speed, it can also be used as a personal insult. If you call someone araf, you are not just saying they move slowly, but that they are slow-witted or lacking in intelligence.
- The Welsh language has specific terms for different types of 'slow' movement, such as mwyn for a slow and gentle pace, which differs from the neutral araf.
- In Wales, road signs for 'slow' often appear as araf alone, but if you see arafwch, it is the imperative form telling the driver to 'slow down'.
Examples in context
- Mae hi'n mynd yn araf.It is going slowly.
- Mae'r traen yn mynd yn araf.The train is moving slowly.
- Mae angen mynd yn araf yma.It is necessary to go slowly here.
Example conversation
Elowen and Rhys are walking together in a park.
- ElowenPam wyt ti'n cerdded mor araf, Rhys?Why are you walking so slowly, Rhys?
- RhysDw i'n blino, Elowen.I'm tired, Elowen.
- ElowenMae'n amser pwdin.It is pudding time.
- RhysYn ôl i'r tŷ, felly.Back to the house, then.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry araf, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
