Slàn leat
to one person
To say "goodbye" in Scottish Gaelic to one person you say Slàn leat. To several people or politely, say Slàn leibh. It is also called Mar sin leat.
Meaning: farewell (interjection)
Ways to say it
| Gaelic | Note |
|---|---|
| Slàn leat | to one person |
| Mar sin leat | casual |
| Slàn leibh | to several or politely |
Say it to the person who is staying. The one who stays often answers with Slàn leat too or with Mar sin leat.
What does it mean word for word?
Slàn means "safe" or "whole", and leat means "with you", so the phrase wishes you well on your way.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Leat is for one person you know well. Leibh is for a group or for someone you do not know well.
Did you know?
- The word slàn is the same word used in slàinte, "health".
Examples in context
- Slàn leat, chì mi thu a dh'aithghearr.Goodbye, I will see you soon.
- Slàn leibh uile.Goodbye to you all.
Example conversation
Seonag leaves her aunt's house after a visit.
- SeonagTapadh leibh airson a h-uile rud. Slàn leibh.Thank you for everything. Goodbye.
- AntaidhSlàn leat, a Sheonag.Goodbye, Seonag.
- SeonagMar sin leibh.Bye.
