slán
In Gaelic, bye is said as slán.
The word slán is the standard way to say goodbye, but it is frequently used as a short, informal bye in casual conversation. In informal settings, you can also use Slán go fóill to mean goodbye for now or Tabhair aire to mean take care.
Meaning: short for goodbye (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word slán literally means safe or healthy.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While slán is the standard term, it is often used informally as a short way to say bye. The phrase Tabhair aire is specifically used in informal settings to mean take care.
How does it change in a sentence?
When you are addressing exactly one person, you can use the phrase slán agat, which literally means safety at you. If you are addressing multiple people, the phrase changes to slán agaibh.
Did you know?
- The root of slán is also found in the common toast slàinte, meaning 'health', showing that the Gaelic 'bye' and the Gaelic 'cheers' are linguistic cousins.
- In some regions, slán is used as a noun meaning 'salvation', turning a simple 'bye' into a wish for someone's spiritual rescue.
- While slán is the standard way to say 'bye', speakers in religious contexts may use beannacht, which translates to 'a blessing'.
Examples in context
- Slán!Bye!
- Slán gu leòleach.Bye for now.
Example conversation
Isla and Hamish are leaving a cafe.
- IslaBha e math an sin. Slán, a Hamish!That was good. Bye, Hamish!
- HamishSlán, a Isla!Bye, Isla!
- IslaCoinnich gu luath!See you soon!
