HeyRuaHow to say “ban” in Irish
- Irish:
- cosc
- English:
- ban, prevention, restraint
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Verbal noun of:
- coisc, to prevent (ag cosc, preventing)
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “kusk” /kɔsk/
- Genitive singular:
- coisc, an choisc (e.g. sárú an choisc, breach of the ban)
What does “cosc” mean?
“Cosc” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- ban
- An official order that stops something from being done; used with 'ar': cosc ar rud.Also: prohibition, embargo, bar.
2 other meanings: prevention or restraint
- 2prevention
- The act of preventing or stopping something; the verbal noun of the verb coisc.Also: preventing, stopping, checking.
- 3restraint
- Something that holds back or restrains a person or thing.Also: check, hindrance.
“Cosc” as a verbal noun
After ag, cosc means preventing: it is the verbal noun of the verb coisc (to prevent). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.
“Cosc” with the article
Here is cosc after the article (an t-alt).
“Cosc” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cosc, the Irish word for ban.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Ban in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for ban?
The Irish for ban is cosc (pronounced “kusk”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean prevention or restraint.
How do you pronounce cosc in Irish?
Cosc is said like “kusk” (IPA /kɔsk/).
Does cosc have a plural?
No plural form is given for cosc in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does cosc have more than one meaning?
Yes. Cosc can mean ban, prevention or restraint, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does cosc change to chosc or gcosc?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cosc becomes mo chosc (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcosc (eclipsis).
How do I say 'to ban something' in Irish?
Use 'cuir cosc ar': Cuireadh cosc ar thobac, 'tobacco was banned'. The preposition 'ar' lenites the following noun.
What is the difference between 'cosc' and 'toirmeasc'?
Both mean prohibition, but 'cosc' is the everyday word for a ban or prevention, while 'toirmeasc' is more formal and often used for an official interdict.
