How to Say “Aye” in Irish

By Maddison Evelyn • Updated October 7, 2026

sea

/ʃa/

The English word 'aye' is translated into Irish as sea.

sea is used to express affirmation or agreement, meaning 'yes'.

Meaning: yes (intj)

How do you pronounce it?

/ʃa/

Did you know?

While sea means 'yes', Irish has no single word for 'no' that functions the same way. Instead, speakers typically negate the verb of the question to refuse.
The word sea is a contraction of is and ea, which literally translates to 'it is'.
Irish speakers may use the word sea to confirm they are listening without actually agreeing with the statement being made.

Example conversation

Oisín and Aoife are discussing a plan to go for a walk.

Oisín

An bhfuil tú réidh?
Are you ready?
Aoife

Sea, tá mé réidh.
Yes, I am ready.
Oisín

An bhfuil an weather go maith?
Is the weather good?
Aoife

Sea, tá sé go hálainn.
Yes, it is beautiful.

Sources

Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sea, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
Word origins: Wiktionary entries sea, CC BY-SA 4.0.

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About The Author

Maddison Evelyn

Dia dhuit! I'm Maddison, a language enthusiast with a special love for the Irish tongue. When I am not writing comprehensive guides on saying different English words in Irish, you might find me sipping on 'beoir' (beer) at a local pub, cooking up a 'burgaire' (burger), or curled up with a good 'leabhar' (book). I also have an undying love for nature, especially 'féileacán' (butterflies). Whether you want to say 'chef' or 'coconut,' 'I love you, mom' or 'good morning beautiful' in Irish, I am your guide through the enchanting world of Irish language.

Maddison EvelynHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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