HeyRuaHow to say “longing” in Irish
- Irish:
- tnúthán
- English:
- longing, envy
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “TNOO-hawn” /t̪ˠn̪ˠuːhaːn̪ˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- tnútháin, an tnútháin (e.g. lán tnútháin, full of longing)
What does “tnúthán” mean?
“Tnúthán” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- longing
- A strong desire or yearning for something, often something hoped for in the future.Also: yearning, desire, expectation, eagerness.
“Tnúthán” with the article
Here is tnúthán after the article (an t-alt).
“Tnúthán” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using tnúthán, the Irish word for longing.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Longing in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for longing?
The Irish for longing is tnúthán (pronounced “TNOO-hawn”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean envy.
How do you pronounce tnúthán in Irish?
Tnúthán is said like “TNOO-hawn” (IPA /t̪ˠn̪ˠuːhaːn̪ˠ/).
Does tnúthán have a plural?
No plural form is given for tnúthán in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does tnúthán have more than one meaning?
Yes. Tnúthán can mean longing or envy, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does tnúthán change to thnúthán or dtnúthán?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) tnúthán becomes mo thnúthán (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár dtnúthán (eclipsis).
What preposition goes with tnúthán?
Use le: tá tnúthán agam leis an deireadh seachtaine, 'I'm looking forward to the weekend'.
How does tnúthán differ from cumha?
Tnúthán is eager longing, often for something to come, while cumha is homesick or sorrowful longing for what is lost or absent.
