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Absence in Irish (Neamhláithreacht): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘neamhláithreacht’ also means: absenteeism

The Irish for absence is neamhláithreacht, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “absence” in Irish

Irish:
neamhláithreacht
English:
absence, absenteeism
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine, third declension
Pronunciation:
“nyav-LAW-hrukht”  /ˈnʲaũˌl̪ˠaːɾʲəxt̪ˠ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
neamhláithreachta, na neamhláithreachta (e.g. cúis na neamhláithreachta, the reason for the absence)

What does “neamhláithreacht” mean?

“Neamhláithreacht” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

absence
The state of not being present, especially from work, school or a meeting.Also: non-attendance, being absent.
1 other meaning: absenteeism
2absenteeism
Habitual or repeated failure to turn up for work or school.Also: truancy, absence from work.

“Neamhláithreacht” with the article

Here is neamhláithreacht after the article (an t-alt).

an neamhláithreacht
the absence
No change after an

“Neamhláithreacht” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using neamhláithreacht, the Irish word for absence.

Tá neamhláithreacht ina fadhb mhór sa scoil seo.
Absenteeism is a big problem in this school.
Níor mhínigh sé an neamhláithreacht.
He didn't explain the absence.
Cad ba chúis leis an neamhláithreacht inné?
What was the reason for the absence yesterday?
Gabh mo leithscéal as mo neamhláithreacht ag an gcruinniú.
Excuse my absence from the meeting.
Tháinig méadú ar an neamhláithreacht ón obair.
Absence from work has increased.
Bhí an rang ag obair ina neamhláithreacht.
The class was working in her absence.
Caithfidh tú nóta a thabhairt faoi gach neamhláithreacht.
You must give a note for every absence.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Absence in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for absence?

The Irish for absence is neamhláithreacht (pronounced “nyav-LAW-hrukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean absenteeism.

How do you pronounce neamhláithreacht in Irish?

Neamhláithreacht is said like “nyav-LAW-hrukht” (IPA /ˈnʲaũˌl̪ˠaːɾʲəxt̪ˠ/).

Does neamhláithreacht have a plural?

No plural form is given for neamhláithreacht in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Does neamhláithreacht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Neamhláithreacht can mean absence or absenteeism, depending on context; the first is the most common.

What is the opposite of neamhláithreacht?

The opposite is láithreacht, meaning presence; the prefix neamh- makes it negative.

How do I say 'in his absence'?

Say 'ina neamhláithreacht' or, more commonly, 'agus é as láthair'.

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