Colourful Irish Phrases

An intriguing collection of Irish-language expressions with their literal and figurative meanings, some familiar and some more obscure. Will be of interest to tourists, Irish-language novices and even fluent Gaeilgeoirs.

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The Irish language has made a huge contribution to the English language as it’s spoken in Ireland and beyond. Micheál Ó Conghaile's 'Colourful Irish Phrases' is a small compendium of characteristic phrases that will alert the reader to the unmistakable difference between our native language and English. Even the most basic words are expressed so differently. Please in Irish is más é do thoil é (if it is your will), and thanks becomes go raibh maith agat (may you receive good).

There are many phrases that when translated, word for word, they sound different, unusual and sometimes funny. But above all, they are rich and deeply rooted. Visitors to Ireland who want to get some notion of our native identity will find these phrases both instructive and revealing.

Topics covered range across subjects as diverse as insults and put-downs, being human and the gift of the gab.