Éire go brách
The English phrase "long live Ireland" is translated into Irish as Éire go brách.
Éire go brách is a common patriotic slogan. It is used to express loyalty and to convey a wish for the country's enduring prosperity.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "Ireland forever". The component go brách means "forever" or "for all time".
How does it change in a sentence?
The adverbial phrase go brách is used to express permanence or eternity.
Did you know?
- The word brách in this phrase actually has its roots in the concept of the 'day of judgment'. It is a derivation of the word bráth, which refers to the final judgment in a religious sense.
- The name Éire descends from the Old Irish Ériu, a mythological goddess who is said to be the eponymous ancestor of the island.
- In modern usage, Éire go brách often functions as a written political signature or a formal closing for speeches.
Example conversation
At a local festival celebrating Irish culture.
- NiamhÉire go brách!Long live Ireland!
- CianDia linn go brách, a Niamh.God be with us forever, Niamh.
- NiamhAn bhfuil an ceol go maith?Is the music good?
- CianTá an ceol iontach, a Niamh.The music is wonderful, Niamh.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries brách, go, Éire, CC BY-SA 4.0.
