Ways to say it
| Irish | IPA |
|---|---|
| go | /ɡo/ /ɡə/ |
| chuig | /xiɟ/ /eɟ/ (Cois Fharraige) |
| chun | /xun̪ˠ/ |
| go dtí | /ɡəˈdʲiː/ |
| ionsar |
In Irish, the choice of word for 'to' depends on whether you are describing movement toward a physical location, a limit in time or an intention. While some forms indicate direction, others are used to express purpose or to function as an infinitive marker.
Which one should you use?
The forms are used in distinct contexts: go dtí is a common way to express movement towards a specific physical location or place. chun is used to express purpose (in order to), to indicate a specific point in time or to indicate a limit, such as 'to three o'clock'. The forms chuig, go and ionsar also exist as ways to express 'to' or 'towards' in different grammatical settings.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The particle a serves as an infinitive marker in Irish. Use go dtí specifically when the direction involves reaching a certain place.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɡo/
Did you know?
- The phrase go dtí literally means 'until it come'. It combines the word go with an old form of the verb 'to come'.
Examples in context
- Go maire tú é!May you live to enjoy it!This example shows the use of go in a wish or blessing.
- ceathrú chun a tríA quarter to threeThis example demonstrates using chun to indicate a limit in time.
- Bhí mé chun ceist a chur ort.I was about to ask you a question.This example shows chun being used to indicate an intention or being about to do something.
- Tá sé ag iarraidh dul go dtí an siopa.He wants to go to the shop.
- Téim chuig an áit chraolta.I go to the broadcasting place.
- Imíonn sí isteach go dtí an leabharlann.She goes to the library.
- 40 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Aoife and Cian are talking about their travel plans.
- AoifeAn bhfuil tú ag dul go baile?Are you going home?
- CianNí hea, tá mé ag dul go Gaillimh.No, I am going to Galway.
- AoifeAn bhfuil tú ag dul go dtí an tstáisiún?Are you going to the station?
- CianTá, tá mé ag dul go dtí an tstáisiún anois.Yes, I am going to the station now.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “to” translations and entries go, chuig, chun, go dtí, ionsar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chuig, chun, go, go dtí, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
