HeyRuaHow to say “pain” in Irish
- Irish:
- pian
- English:
- pain, punishment
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “pee-un” /pʲiən̪ˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- péine, na péine (e.g. leigheas na péine, the cure for the pain)
What does “pian” mean?
“Pian” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- pain
- A feeling of physical hurt or discomfort in the body.Also: ache, soreness, hurt.
1 other meaning: punishment
- 2punishment
- A penalty or suffering imposed for wrongdoing, especially in the phrase pianta ifrinn (the pains of hell).Also: penalty, torment.
Other Irish words for pain: fulaingt (suffering)
“Pian” with the article
Here is pian after the article (an t-alt).
“Pian” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using pian, the Irish word for pain.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Pain in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for pain?
The Irish for pain is pian (pronounced “pee-un”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean punishment.
How do you pronounce pian in Irish?
Pian is said like “pee-un” (IPA /pʲiən̪ˠ/).
Does pian have a plural?
No plural form is given for pian in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does pian have more than one meaning?
Yes. Pian can mean pain or punishment, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does pian change to phian or bpian?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) pian becomes mo phian (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár bpian (eclipsis).
How do I say 'I have a pain' in Irish?
Use tá pian orm for a general pain, or tá pian i mo chos for a pain in a specific part, such as the leg.
Is 'pianta' ever used even though the word is listed as singular only?
Yes, the form pianta occurs in speech and set phrases such as pianta ifrinn, but the standard database lists pian as having no plural.
