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Blasphemy in Irish (Diamhasla): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘diamhasla’ also means: bad language

The Irish for blasphemy is diamhasla, a masculine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “blasphemy” in Irish

Irish:
diamhasla
English:
blasphemy, bad language
Word type:
noun
Gender:
masculine, fourth declension
Pronunciation:
“JEE-uh-vuss-luh”  /ˈdʲiəwəsˠlˠə/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
diamhasla, an diamhasla (e.g. cion diamhasla, the offence of blasphemy)

What does “diamhasla” mean?

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

blasphemy
Speech or behaviour that insults God or sacred things.Also: profanity, sacrilegious talk, impiety.
1 other meaning: bad language
2bad language
Foul, abusive or profane talk in general.Also: foul language, swearing, profanity.

“Diamhasla” with the article

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

an diamhasla
the blasphemy
No change after an

“Diamhasla” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using diamhasla, the Irish word for blasphemy.

Is diamhasla é sin a rá.
It is blasphemy to say that.
Cuireadh diamhasla ina leith.
He was accused of blasphemy.
Bhí an diamhasla coiriúil in Éirinn tráth.
Blasphemy was once a crime in Ireland.
Baineadh an cion diamhasla as an mbunreacht.
The offence of blasphemy was removed from the constitution.
Ní maith liom an diamhasla a bhíonn aige.
I don't like the foul language he uses.
Bhí an sagart buartha faoin diamhasla sa leabhar.
The priest was worried about the blasphemy in the book.
Labhair sé diamhasla os comhair na ndaoine.
He spoke blasphemy in front of the people.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Blasphemy in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for blasphemy?

The Irish for blasphemy is diamhasla (pronounced “JEE-uh-vuss-luh”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean bad language.

How do you pronounce diamhasla in Irish?

Diamhasla is said like “JEE-uh-vuss-luh” (IPA /ˈdʲiəwəsˠlˠə/).

Does diamhasla have a plural?

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

Does diamhasla have more than one meaning?

Yes. Diamhasla can mean blasphemy or bad language, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does diamhasla change to dhiamhasla or ndiamhasla?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) diamhasla becomes mo dhiamhasla (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ndiamhasla (eclipsis).

How is diamhasla different from masla?

Masla is an insult in general, while diamhasla is an insult to God or holy things, that is, blasphemy.

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