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Insignificance in Irish (Neamhbhrí): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘neamhbhrí’ also means: weakness

The Irish for insignificance is neamhbhrí, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “insignificance” in Irish

Irish:
neamhbhrí
English:
insignificance, weakness
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine
Pronunciation:
“NYOW-vree”  /ˈn̠ʲəuvʲrʲiː/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
neamhbhrí, na neamhbhrí (e.g. mothú neamhbhrí, a feeling of insignificance)

What does “neamhbhrí” mean?

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

insignificance
The state of having no importance, value or meaning, often used in the phrase 'cuir ar neamhbhrí' (render useless, nullify).Also: nothingness, unimportance, nullity, worthlessness.
1 other meaning: weakness
2weakness
A state of having no strength or force; ineffectiveness.Also: ineffectiveness, powerlessness.

“Neamhbhrí” with the article

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

an neamhbhrí
the insignificance
No change after an

“Neamhbhrí” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using neamhbhrí, the Irish word for insignificance.

Cuireadh an dlí ar neamhbhrí ag an gcúirt.
The law was nullified by the court.
Chuir an bháisteach ár bpleananna ar neamhbhrí.
The rain brought our plans to nothing.
Is beag nach ndeachaigh a chuid oibre ar neamhbhrí.
His work almost came to nothing.
Bhraith sí neamhbhrí an tsaoil an oíche sin.
She felt the insignificance of life that night.
Níl ann ach neamhbhrí i gcomparáid leis an bhfadhb eile.
It is nothing compared to the other problem.
Thug sé neamhbhrí don ghearán go léir.
He made light of the whole complaint.
Chuir an ceann seo an conradh ar neamhbhrí.
This clause made the contract void.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Insignificance in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for insignificance?

The Irish for insignificance is neamhbhrí (pronounced “NYOW-vree”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean weakness.

How do you pronounce neamhbhrí in Irish?

Neamhbhrí is said like “NYOW-vree” (IPA /ˈn̠ʲəuvʲrʲiː/).

Does neamhbhrí have a plural?

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

Does neamhbhrí have more than one meaning?

Yes. Neamhbhrí can mean insignificance or weakness, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How is 'neamhbhrí' most often used?

Mainly in the phrase 'cuir ar neamhbhrí', meaning to nullify or render useless, e.g. 'cuireadh an cinneadh ar neamhbhrí' (the decision was annulled).

How does it differ from 'neamhní'?

'Neamhní' means nothing or nothingness, while 'neamhbhrí' stresses lack of force, meaning or effect.

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