HeyRuaHow to say “knocking” in Irish
- Irish:
- cnagadh
- English:
- knocking, cracking
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Verbal noun of:
- cnag, to knock (ag cnagadh, knocking)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “KNOG-uh” /ˈkn̪ˠɑɡə/
- Genitive singular:
- cnagtha, an chnagtha (e.g. fuaim an chnagtha, the sound of the knocking)
What does “cnagadh” mean?
“Cnagadh” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- knocking
- The verbal noun of 'cnag': the act of knocking or rapping, for example on a door.Also: knock, rapping, tapping.
1 other meaning: cracking
- 2cracking
- The act of cracking or breaking something hard, such as nuts; also a beating or thrashing.Also: crunching, beating, thrashing.
“Cnagadh” as a verbal noun
After ag, cnagadh means knocking: it is the verbal noun of the verb cnag (to knock). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.
“Cnagadh” with the article
Here is cnagadh after the article (an t-alt).
“Cnagadh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cnagadh, the Irish word for knocking.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Knocking in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for knocking?
The Irish for knocking is cnagadh (pronounced “KNOG-uh”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean cracking.
How do you pronounce cnagadh in Irish?
Cnagadh is said like “KNOG-uh” (IPA /ˈkn̪ˠɑɡə/).
Does cnagadh have a plural?
No plural form is given for cnagadh in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does cnagadh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Cnagadh can mean knocking or cracking, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does cnagadh change to chnagadh or gcnagadh?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cnagadh becomes mo chnagadh (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcnagadh (eclipsis).
How do I say someone is knocking at the door?
Use 'ag cnagadh' with 'ar': 'Tá duine ag cnagadh ar an doras.'
