HeyRuaHow to say “nothing” in Irish
- Irish:
- dada
- English:
- nothing, jot
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “DAH-duh” /ˈd̪ˠad̪ˠə/
- Genitive singular:
- dada, an dada (e.g. luach dada, the value of nothing)
What does “dada” mean?
“Dada” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- nothing
- Nothing at all, used mostly in negative sentences and questions, like 'tada' or 'faic'.Also: anything, not a thing, naught.
“Dada” with the article
Here is dada after the article (an t-alt).
“Dada” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using dada, the Irish word for nothing.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Phrases with “dada”
Nothing in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for nothing?
The Irish for nothing is dada (pronounced “DAH-duh”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean jot.
How do you pronounce dada in Irish?
Dada is said like “DAH-duh” (IPA /ˈd̪ˠad̪ˠə/).
Does dada have a plural?
No plural form is given for dada in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does dada have more than one meaning?
Yes. Dada can mean nothing or jot, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does dada change to dhada or ndada?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) dada becomes mo dhada (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ndada (eclipsis).
What is the difference between 'dada', 'tada' and 'faic'?
All mean nothing; 'dada' and 'tada' are more northern and western, while 'faic' is common in Munster. 'Níl dada agam' and 'Níl faic agam' both mean I have nothing.
Do I need a negative verb with 'dada'?
Usually yes: 'Ní fhaca mé dada' means I saw nothing. In questions it means anything: 'An bhfuil dada ann?'
