HeyRuaHow to say “need” in Irish
- Irish:
- riachtanas
- English:
- need, necessity
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “REE-ukh-tuh-nus” /ˈɾˠiəxt̪ˠənˠəsˠ/
- Plural:
- riachtanais (needs)
- Genitive singular:
- riachtanais, an riachtanais (e.g. in am an riachtanais, in time of need)
- Genitive plural:
- riachtanas, na riachtanas (e.g. liosta na riachtanas, the list of requirements)
What does “riachtanas” mean?
“Riachtanas” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- need
- Something that is required or must be had.Also: requirement, necessity, want.
“Riachtanas” with the article
The plural of need in Irish is riachtanais. Here is riachtanas after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Riachtanas” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using riachtanas, the Irish word for need.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Need in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for need?
The Irish for need is riachtanas (pronounced “REE-ukh-tuh-nus”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is riachtanais. Depending on context it can also mean necessity.
How do you pronounce riachtanas in Irish?
Riachtanas is said like “REE-ukh-tuh-nus” (IPA /ˈɾˠiəxt̪ˠənˠəsˠ/).
What is the plural of need in Irish?
The plural of riachtanas is riachtanais; with the article, na riachtanais means “the needs”. The genitive plural is riachtanas, as in liosta na riachtanas (the list of requirements).
Does riachtanas have more than one meaning?
Yes. Riachtanas can mean need or necessity, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between 'riachtanas' and 'gá'?
Both mean need, but 'gá' is common in phrases like 'tá gá agam le', while 'riachtanas' is a noun for a specific need or requirement, as in 'riachtanais speisialta'.
