HeyRuaHow to say “bit” in Irish
- Irish:
- pioc
- English:
- bit, particle
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “pyik” /pʲɪk/
- Genitive singular:
- pioc, an phioc (e.g. méid an phioc, the size of the bit)
What does “pioc” mean?
“Pioc” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- bit
- A tiny amount or the least part of something, used mostly in negative sentences to mean 'not a bit' or 'nothing at all'.Also: jot, whit, iota, nothing, least bit.
1 other meaning: particle
“Pioc” with the article
Here is pioc after the article (an t-alt).
“Pioc” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using pioc, the Irish word for bit.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Bit in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for bit?
The Irish for bit is pioc (pronounced “pyik”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean particle.
How do you pronounce pioc in Irish?
Pioc is said like “pyik” (IPA /pʲɪk/).
Does pioc have a plural?
No plural form is given for pioc in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does pioc have more than one meaning?
Yes. Pioc can mean bit or particle, depending on context; the first is the most common. Pioc also has its own entry as a verb meaning to pick.
Why does pioc change to phioc or bpioc?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) pioc becomes mo phioc (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár bpioc (eclipsis).
Is 'pioc' the same word as the verb 'pioc' meaning to pick?
They share a spelling, but the noun 'pioc' means a bit or jot, as in 'níl pioc agam', while the verb 'pioc' means to pick, as in 'Pioc aníos é'.
How is 'pioc' typically used?
It is mostly used after a negative to mean 'not a bit', for example 'Níl pioc fuachta orm', I'm not a bit cold.
