HeyRuaHow to say “law” in Irish
- Irish:
- dlí
- English:
- law, law (discipline), litigation
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “dlee” /dʲlʲiː/
- Plural:
- dlíthe (laws)
- Genitive singular:
- dlí, an dlí (e.g. i gcoinne an dlí, against the law)
- Genitive plural:
- dlíthe, na ndlíthe (e.g. leabhar na ndlíthe, the law book)
What does “dlí” mean?
“Dlí” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- law
- A rule made by a government or authority that people must obey, or the whole system of such rules.Also: rule, statute, legislation.
2 other meanings: law (discipline) or litigation
- 2law (discipline)
- The study or profession of law, as in studying law at university.Also: law, legal studies, jurisprudence.
- 3litigation
- Legal action taken in a court, as in going to law against someone.Also: lawsuit, legal action, court case.
“Dlí” with the article
The plural of law in Irish is dlíthe. Here is dlí after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Dlí” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using dlí, the Irish word for law.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Law in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for law?
The Irish for law is dlí (pronounced “dlee”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is dlíthe. Depending on context it can also mean law (discipline) or litigation.
How do you pronounce dlí in Irish?
Dlí is said like “dlee” (IPA /dʲlʲiː/).
What is the plural of law in Irish?
The plural of dlí is dlíthe; with the article, na dlíthe means “the laws”. The genitive plural is dlíthe, as in leabhar na ndlíthe (the law book).
Does dlí have more than one meaning?
Yes. Dlí can mean law, law (discipline) or litigation, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does dlí change to dhlí or ndlí?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) dlí becomes mo dhlí (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ndlí (eclipsis).
What is the difference between 'dlí' and 'acht'?
'Dlí' is law in general or a law, while 'acht' is a specific Act passed by the Oireachtas, e.g. 'Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla'.
How do I say 'to go to law' or 'sue' someone?
Use 'dlí a chur ar dhuine', e.g. 'Chuir sé an dlí orm', he took me to court.
