HeyRuaHow to say “left” in Irish
- Irish:
- clé
- English:
- left, the left (politics)
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “klay” /clʲeː/
- Genitive singular:
- clé, na clé (e.g. lámh na clé, the left hand)
What does “clé” mean?
“Clé” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- left
- The left side or left-hand direction, the side opposite the right.Also: left side, left-hand side, left hand.
“Clé” with the article
Here is clé after the article (an t-alt).
“Clé” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using clé, the Irish word for left.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Phrases with “clé”
Left in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for left?
The Irish for left is clé (pronounced “klay”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean the left (politics).
How do you pronounce clé in Irish?
Clé is said like “klay” (IPA /clʲeː/).
Does clé have a plural?
No plural form is given for clé in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does clé have more than one meaning?
Yes. Clé can mean left or the left (politics), depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does clé change to chlé or gclé?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) clé becomes mo chlé (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gclé (eclipsis).
How do I say 'on the left' and 'on the right' in Irish?
Use 'ar chlé' for on the left and 'ar dheis' for on the right, both with lenition after 'ar'.
Is 'clé' also an adjective?
Yes, it is often used as an adjective, as in 'an lámh chlé' (the left hand) and 'an chos chlé' (the left foot).
