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Discrimination in Irish (Leithcheal): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘leithcheal’ also means: partiality

The Irish for discrimination is leithcheal, a masculine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “discrimination” in Irish

Irish:
leithcheal
English:
discrimination, partiality
Word type:
noun
Gender:
masculine, third declension
Pronunciation:
“LEH-khal”  /ˈlʲɛçal̪ˠ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
leithcheala, an leithcheala (e.g. cosc an leithcheala, the prohibition of discrimination)

What does “leithcheal” mean?

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

discrimination
Unfair treatment of a person or group compared with others, for example because of sex, race or religion.Also: prejudice, bias, unfair treatment, partiality.
1 other meaning: partiality
2partiality
Favouring one side or person over another; setting someone apart.Also: favouritism, bias.

“Leithcheal” with the article

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

an leithcheal
the discrimination
No change after an

“Leithcheal” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using leithcheal, the Irish word for discrimination.

Is cineál leithcheala é sin.
That is a kind of discrimination.
Tá leithcheal in aghaidh na mban fós ann.
There is still discrimination against women.
Rinne an comhlacht leithcheal orm mar gheall ar m'aois.
The company discriminated against me because of my age.
Ní ghlacfaimid le leithcheal ar bith.
We will not accept any discrimination.
Tá dlí nua ann i gcoinne leithcheala.
There is a new law against discrimination.
Bhí an leithcheal le feiceáil go soiléir sa scoil.
The discrimination was clearly visible in the school.
D'fhulaing siad leithcheal ar feadh na mblianta.
They suffered discrimination for years.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Discrimination in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for discrimination?

The Irish for discrimination is leithcheal (pronounced “LEH-khal”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean partiality.

How do you pronounce leithcheal in Irish?

Leithcheal is said like “LEH-khal” (IPA /ˈlʲɛçal̪ˠ/).

Does leithcheal have a plural?

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

Does leithcheal have more than one meaning?

Yes. Leithcheal can mean discrimination or partiality, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How do I say 'discriminate against someone' in Irish?

Use the phrase 'leithcheal a dhéanamh ar dhuine', for example 'rinne siad leithcheal orm', they discriminated against me.

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