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Incompetence in Irish (Neamhinniúlacht): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘neamhinniúlacht’ also means: incapacity

The Irish for incompetence is neamhinniúlacht, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “incompetence” in Irish

Irish:
neamhinniúlacht
English:
incompetence, incapacity
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine
Pronunciation:
“NYAV-in-yoo-lukht”  /ˈnʲaun̠ʲuːl̪ˠəxt̪ˠ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
neamhinniúlachta, na neamhinniúlachta (e.g. cruthúnas neamhinniúlachta, proof of incompetence)

What does “neamhinniúlacht” mean?

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

incompetence
A lack of the skill or ability needed to do something properly.Also: incapability, inability, inefficiency.
1 other meaning: incapacity
2incapacity
The state of not being legally or formally qualified or able to do something.Also: disqualification, legal incapacity.

“Neamhinniúlacht” with the article

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

an neamhinniúlacht
the incompetence
No change after an

“Neamhinniúlacht” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using neamhinniúlacht, the Irish word for incompetence.

Bhí neamhinniúlacht an bhainisteora soiléir do chách.
The manager's incompetence was clear to everyone.
Cáineadh an rialtas as a neamhinniúlacht.
The government was criticised for its incompetence.
Ní féidir neamhinniúlacht den sórt sin a sheasamh.
Incompetence like that cannot be tolerated.
Briseadh as a phost é mar gheall ar neamhinniúlacht.
He was dismissed from his job for incompetence.
Is comhartha neamhinniúlachta é an botún sin.
That mistake is a sign of incompetence.
Chuir an neamhinniúlacht isteach go mór ar an tionscadal.
The incompetence badly affected the project.
Labhair sí faoina neamhinniúlacht féin sa ríomhaireacht.
She spoke about her own incompetence with computers.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Incompetence in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for incompetence?

The Irish for incompetence is neamhinniúlacht (pronounced “NYAV-in-yoo-lukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean incapacity.

How do you pronounce neamhinniúlacht in Irish?

Neamhinniúlacht is said like “NYAV-in-yoo-lukht” (IPA /ˈnʲaun̠ʲuːl̪ˠəxt̪ˠ/).

Does neamhinniúlacht have a plural?

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

Does neamhinniúlacht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Neamhinniúlacht can mean incompetence or incapacity, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How is 'neamhinniúlacht' formed?

It is 'inniúlacht' (competence, ability) with the negative prefix 'neamh-', so it means incompetence or lack of ability.

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