Greetings and welcome to our guide on how to say “what” in Irish! Whether you’re a beginner exploring the Irish language, preparing for a trip to the Emerald Isle, or simply curious about the intricacies of Irish vocabulary, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll cover the formal and informal ways of saying “what” in Irish, showcasing its usage, regional variations (if any), and providing you with plenty of useful tips and examples along the way. So, let’s dive in!
The Formal Way: “Cad” or “Céard”
In formal Irish, the most common way to say “what” is by using the word “cad” (pronounced kahd) or “céard” (pronounced kayrd). These words can be used interchangeably and generally mean the same thing. Let’s explore how to use them effectively:
1. Direct Question:
If you want to ask a direct question using “what” in a formal context, you can use either “cad” or “céard.” Here are a few examples:
Cad é sin? – What is that?
Céard atá á rá agat? – What are you saying?
2. Indirect Question:
When using “what” in an indirect question, we also use “cad” or “céard.” Here’s an example:
Tá sé ag caint faoi cad atá tarlaithe. – He is talking about what happened.
3. Special Case: “Cad é an t-am?” – “What time is it?”
When asking for the time in Irish, we use the phrase “cad é an t-am?” (pronounced kahd ay un th-ahm). While the word “cad” is used, the phrase itself is quite common and worth noting:
Cad é an t-am? – What time is it?
Now that we’ve covered the formal way of saying “what” in Irish, let’s explore the informal approach, which is commonly used in casual conversation.
The Informal Way: “Conas” or “Cén Fáth”
In informal Irish, a different word is used to express “what” – “conas” (pronounced kun-us). Additionally, the phrase “cén fáth” (pronounced kay-n fah) can also be used interchangeably. Let’s delve into each of them:
1. Conas:
“Conas” is often used to mean “how” but can also be used as an informal way to say “what” when referring to the nature, quality, or condition of something. Here are a couple of examples:
Conas atá tú? – How are you? (informal)
Conas atá an aimsir? – What is the weather like? (informal)
2. Cén Fáth:
The phrase “cén fáth” literally translates to “which reason” and can be used in the sense of asking “why.” However, it can also substitute for “what” in certain scenarios. Here’s an example:
Cén fáth nach bhfuil sé anseo? – Why is he not here? / What is the reason he is not here?
Keep in mind that while “conas” and “cén fáth” primarily serve as informal equivalents for “what,” their usage can extend to other contexts as well, as shown in the examples.
Regional Variations:
When it comes to saying “what” in Irish, regional variations are not a prominent factor. The variations mentioned above are commonly understood across Irish-speaking regions. However, it’s worth noting that certain dialects may have slight differences in pronunciation or accentuation, which can add uniqueness to local phrases and speech patterns.
Wrapping Up:
Now that you have a solid understanding of how to say “what” in Irish, both formally and informally, along with examples and useful tips, you’re well on your way to mastering this essential phrase. Remember to practice your pronunciation and embrace the rich cultural heritage that the Irish language brings. A ‘céad míle fáilte’ awaits you in the heart of Irish-speaking communities. Enjoy your journey as you continue exploring the enchanting world of the Irish language!
