HeyRuaHow to say “boldness” in Irish
- Irish:
- dánacht
- English:
- boldness, audacity
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, third declension
- Pronunciation:
- “DAW-nukht” /ˈd̪ˠɑːn̪ˠəxt̪ˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- dánachta, na dánachta (e.g. in ainneoin na dánachta, despite the boldness)
What does “dánacht” mean?
“Dánacht” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- boldness
- The quality of being bold or daring, willing to take risks or face danger.Also: daring, courage, fearlessness.
1 other meaning: audacity
- 2audacity
- Cheeky or impudent behaviour, being too forward or disrespectful.Also: effrontery, impudence, cheek, forwardness.
Other Irish words for boldness: dásacht (daring)
“Dánacht” with the article
Here is dánacht after the article (an t-alt).
“Dánacht” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using dánacht, the Irish word for boldness.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Boldness in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for boldness?
The Irish for boldness is dánacht (pronounced “DAW-nukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean audacity.
How do you pronounce dánacht in Irish?
Dánacht is said like “DAW-nukht” (IPA /ˈd̪ˠɑːn̪ˠəxt̪ˠ/).
Does dánacht have a plural?
No plural form is given for dánacht in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does dánacht have more than one meaning?
Yes. Dánacht can mean boldness or audacity, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does dánacht change to dhánacht or ndánacht?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) dánacht becomes mo dhánacht (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ndánacht (eclipsis).
Is 'dánacht' always a positive quality?
No, 'dánacht' can mean admirable daring or rude cheek depending on context; for clearly positive courage 'misneach' or 'crógacht' is often used.
How do I say someone had the nerve to do something?
Use the pattern 'bhí sé de dhánacht aige', for example 'Bhí sé de dhánacht aici é a rá', 'She had the nerve to say it'.
