HeyRuaHow to say “bad language” in Irish
- Irish:
- drochtheanga
- English:
- bad language, sharp tongue
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine
- Pronunciation:
- “DRUKH-hyang-uh” /ˈd̪ˠɾˠɔxˌhʲaŋɡə/
- Genitive singular:
- drochtheanga, na drochtheanga (e.g. úsáid na drochtheanga, the use of bad language)
What does “drochtheanga” mean?
“Drochtheanga” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- bad language
- Rude, abusive or foul words used when speaking to or about someone.Also: abusive language, foul language, bad tongue, swearing.
1 other meaning: sharp tongue
- 2sharp tongue
- A habit of speaking harshly or slanderously about others.Also: evil tongue, slander.
Other Irish words for bad language: drochbhéal (bad language), droch-chaint (bad language)
“Drochtheanga” with the article
Here is drochtheanga after the article (an t-alt).
“Drochtheanga” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using drochtheanga, the Irish word for bad language.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Bad language in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for bad language?
The Irish for bad language is drochtheanga (pronounced “DRUKH-hyang-uh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean sharp tongue.
How do you pronounce drochtheanga in Irish?
Drochtheanga is said like “DRUKH-hyang-uh” (IPA /ˈd̪ˠɾˠɔxˌhʲaŋɡə/).
Does drochtheanga have a plural?
No plural form is given for drochtheanga in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does drochtheanga have more than one meaning?
Yes. Drochtheanga can mean bad language or sharp tongue, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does drochtheanga change to dhrochtheanga or ndrochtheanga?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) drochtheanga becomes mo dhrochtheanga (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ndrochtheanga (eclipsis).
How do I say someone has a foul mouth?
Say 'tá drochtheanga aige' or 'tá drochtheanga aici', literally 'he has a bad tongue' or 'she has a bad tongue'. For swearing specifically you can also use 'ag eascainí'.
