HeyRuaHow to say “love” in Irish
- Irish:
- grá
- English:
- love, beloved, charity
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “graw” /ɡɾˠɑː/
- Genitive singular:
- grá, an ghrá (e.g. scéal an ghrá, the story of the love)
What does “grá” mean?
“Grá” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- love
- A strong feeling of deep affection for someone or something.Also: affection, fondness, passion.
2 other meanings: beloved or charity
“Grá” with the article
Here is grá after the article (an t-alt).
“Grá” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using grá, the Irish word for love.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Phrases with “grá”
Love in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for love?
The Irish for love is grá (pronounced “graw”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean beloved or charity.
How do you pronounce grá in Irish?
Grá is said like “graw” (IPA /ɡɾˠɑː/).
Does grá have a plural?
No plural form is given for grá in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does grá have more than one meaning?
Yes. Grá can mean love, beloved or charity, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does grá change to ghrá or ngrá?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) grá becomes mo ghrá (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngrá (eclipsis).
How do I say 'I love you' in Irish?
Say 'Tá grá agam duit' or, very commonly, 'Is breá liom thú'; 'Tá mé i ngrá leat' means 'I am in love with you'.
What is the difference between grá and cion?
Grá is love, often romantic or deep, while cion is a milder affection or fondness, as in 'Tá cion agam air'.
