HeyRuaHow to say “narrowness” in Irish
- Irish:
- cúinge
- English:
- narrowness, narrow place
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine
- Pronunciation:
- “KOON-yeh” /ˈkuːnʲɟə/
- Genitive singular:
- cúinge, na cúinge (e.g. de bharr chúinge an bhóthair, because of the narrowness of the road)
What does “cúinge” mean?
“Cúinge” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- narrowness
- The quality of being narrow or tight, with little width or room.Also: tightness, confinement, straitness.
1 other meaning: narrow place
- 2narrow place
- A narrow or confined place, such as a strait or pass.Also: strait, defile, narrows.
“Cúinge” with the article
Here is cúinge after the article (an t-alt).
“Cúinge” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cúinge, the Irish word for narrowness.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Narrowness in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for narrowness?
The Irish for narrowness is cúinge (pronounced “KOON-yeh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean narrow place.
How do you pronounce cúinge in Irish?
Cúinge is said like “KOON-yeh” (IPA /ˈkuːnʲɟə/).
Does cúinge have a plural?
No plural form is given for cúinge in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does cúinge have more than one meaning?
Yes. Cúinge can mean narrowness or narrow place, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does cúinge change to chúinge or gcúinge?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cúinge becomes mo chúinge (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcúinge (eclipsis).
What is the difference between cúinge and caoile?
Both can mean narrowness, but cúinge suggests confinement or lack of room, as in cúinge an bhóthair, while caoile means thinness or slenderness.
Which adjective is cúinge related to?
It is the abstract noun from the adjective cúng, 'narrow', just as fairsinge comes from fairsing.
