Saesneg
/ˈseɨ̯snɛɡ/
Saesneg is the Welsh word for the English language.
Saesneg is used as a noun to refer to the English language itself. It can also be used as an adjective to describe things pertaining to the English language.
Meaning: the English language (name)
Which one should you use?
While Saesneg refers to the English language, the word Seisnig is used as an adjective specifically meaning 'of or pertaining to England'.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun Saesneg functions as an adjective meaning 'English' in phrases such as 'the English language'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈseɨ̯snɛɡ/
Did you know?
- In Wales, using Saesneg can be a point of linguistic identity, as the language has historically been viewed as a tool of administration and conquest.
- The word Saesneg actually refers to the 'Saxon language' rather than the language of the English as a whole. It stems from the ancient Germanic tribe, the Saxons, who settled in parts of England.
- While English speakers often use 'English' to mean both the language and the people, Welsh requires a strict separation between Saesneg for the tongue and Saeson for the people.
Examples in context
- Mae o'n siarad Saesneg.He is speaking English.This sentence is useful for saying that someone is speaking Saesneg.Tatoeba #7590332 by SteCymru14, translation #294042 by CN
- Wyt ti'n siarad Saesneg?Do you speak English?This sentence is useful for asking if someone speaks Saesneg.Tatoeba #1979956 by Sisial, translation #378270 by saeb
- Mae'n well gen i Saesneg.I prefer English.This sentence is useful for expressing a preference for Saesneg.Tatoeba #6889922 by Sisial, translation #5129420 by honestlang
- Rydych chi'n siarad Iaith Saesneg yn dda iawn.You speak English very well.
- Wyt ti'n gallu deall Saes?Can you understand English?
- 8 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Catrin and Dylan are discussing a book.
- CatrinYdy'r llyfr hwn yn Saesneg?Is this book in English?
- DylanYdy, mae'n Saesneg.Yes, it is in English.
- CatrinYdy Dylan yn darllen Saesneg?Does Dylan read English?
- DylanYdy, mae'n dysgu Saesneg.Yes, he is learning English.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “english” translations and entries Saesneg, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Saesneg, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
