If you’re looking to expand your Irish language skills, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to express “last year” in Irish, covering both formal and informal usages. Additionally, we’ll provide some tips, examples, and insights into regional variations. So, let’s dive right in and discover how to say “last year” in Irish!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Last Year” in Irish
When it comes to formal contexts, such as business or official correspondence, Irish language speakers use the phrase “anuraidh” to refer to “last year.” Pronounced as “AN-oo-ree,” this term finds its roots in the Irish language and is widely recognized across different regions.
Informal Ways to Say “Last Year” in Irish
In informal conversations, the Irish language offers several alternatives to express “last year.” One commonly used phrase is “anuraidh seo caite,” which translates to “last year gone” in English. Pronounced as “AN-oo-ree shuh caught-eh,” this informal expression is widely understood and can be heard throughout Ireland.
Another informal variation is the use of the phrase “an bhliain seo caite,” which directly translates to “this past year” in English. Pronounced as “un vleen shuh caught-eh,” this phrase is quite versatile and can be used interchangeably with other informal expressions for “last year.”
Regional Variations
While many Irish expressions for “last year” are widely understood across different regions, there can be slight variations based on dialects and local customs. Here are a few regional variations of how to say “last year” in Irish:
Munster Dialect:
In the Munster dialect, which includes regions such as Cork, Kerry, and Waterford, you might come across the phrase “anuraidh thart” to denote “last year.” Pronounced as “AN-oo-ree harrt,” this expression adds a local touch to your Irish vocabulary.
Connacht Dialect:
In the western province of Connacht, encompassing counties like Galway, Mayo, and Sligo, the phrase “anoiche” can be heard to express “last year.” Pronounced as “AH-ni-ha,” this variation offers a unique twist appreciated by locals.
Ulster Dialect:
In the province of Ulster, including Antrim, Down, and Derry, you might hear the phrase “anuraidh seo thart” being used to refer to “last year.” Pronounced as “AN-oo-ree shuh harrt,” this variation showcases the distinctive flavor of the Ulster dialect.
Tips and Examples
To ensure a smooth transition in incorporating “last year” into your Irish conversations, here are a few additional tips and examples to get you started:
Tips:
- Practice the pronunciation of the listed expressions to build confidence in your spoken Irish.
- It’s always useful to listen to native Irish speakers or online resources to get a better grasp of the language.
- Consider using these phrases in context with other time-related expressions to enhance your language skills.
Examples:
“Anuraidh, chuaigh mé ar saoire go dtí cósta na hÉireann.” – “Last year, I went on vacation to the Irish coast.”
“Anuraidh seo caite, shroich mé cúlraíocht a dhéanamh leis na páistí.” – “Last year, I achieved a background in childcare.”
“An bhliain seo caite, thugamar cuairt ar an nGaeltacht le haghaidh cúrsaí Gaeilge.” – “This past year, we visited the Gaeltacht for Irish language courses.”
“Anuraidh thart, bhí aimsir an-téirgiúil againn le haghaidh spóirt amuigh faoin aer.” – “Last year, we had a very active weather for outdoor sports.”
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now gained valuable insights into various ways to say “last year” in Irish. From formal to informal expressions and regional variations, you’re well-equipped to incorporate these phrases into your Irish language journey. Remember to practice, listen to native speakers, and immerse yourself in the language to further develop your skills. So go ahead, use these phrases confidently, and keep the Irish language alive and flourishing!
