araf
/ˈarav/
The Welsh word for slow is araf.
araf is an adjective used to describe something that is not quick in motion.
Meaning: not quick in motion (adj)
Which one should you use?
The form araf is the base adjective, but it is often preceded by the particle yn to form yn araf when describing a state of being or how an action is performed.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective araf is used in its base form after the verb bod (to be) to describe a subject's speed. When describing how an action is performed or a state of being, 'araf' is often preceded by the particle 'yn'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈarav/
Did you know?
- The word araf can undergo 'soft mutation', which means the first letter might change to a different sound depending on the word that comes before it.
- If you are driving in Wales, a sudden shout of araf! is often used as a command meaning 'slow down!' or 'steady!'
- The spelling of araf is remarkably consistent with its Middle Welsh ancestor, making it an easy word for historical linguists to trace.
Examples in context
- Mae'r rhyngrwyd yn ein pentref yn araf iawn.The internet in our village is very slow.This sentence is useful for describing the speed of the internet using araf.Tatoeba #10272191 by SabukHitam, translation #10272193 by SabukHitam
- Rwy'n gweithio araf.I am working slowly.
- Mae'r trên yn rhedeg araf.The train is running slowly.
- Mae'r trafïg wedi arafu.The traffic has slowed down.
- Mae'r car yn araf heddiw.The car is slow today.
- Mae'r tes yn araf iawn.The snail is very slow.
Example conversation
Rhiannon and Owain are walking together.
- RhiannonPam rwyt ti mor araf, Owain?Why are you so slow, Owain?
- OwainMae fy chais yn ddigon trwm.My bag is quite heavy.
- RhiannonGalle i helpu ti.I can help you.
- OwainDiolch, Rhiannon.Thanks, Rhiannon.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “slow” translations and entries araf, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries araf, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
