HeyRuaHow to say “pleasant expression” in Irish
- Irish:
- aoibh
- English:
- pleasant expression, humour
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “eev” /iːvʲ/
- Genitive singular:
- aoibhe, na haoibhe (e.g. rian na haoibhe ar a aghaidh, the trace of the pleasant expression on his face)
What does “aoibh” mean?
“Aoibh” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- pleasant expression
- A cheerful, pleasant look on someone's face, especially a smile.Also: smile, cheerful look, good humour.
1 other meaning: humour
- 2humour
- A person's mood or disposition, good or bad, as in 'drochaoibh' (bad humour).Also: mood, disposition, temper.
“Aoibh” with the article
Here is aoibh after the article (an t-alt).
“Aoibh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using aoibh, the Irish word for pleasant expression.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Pleasant expression in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for pleasant expression?
The Irish for pleasant expression is aoibh (pronounced “eev”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean humour.
How do you pronounce aoibh in Irish?
Aoibh is said like “eev” (IPA /iːvʲ/).
Does aoibh have a plural?
No plural form is given for aoibh in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does aoibh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Aoibh can mean pleasant expression or humour, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does aoibh sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an aoibh (the pleasant expression), a haoibh (her pleasant expression), a n-aoibh (their pleasant expression).
What is the difference between 'aoibh' and 'gáire'?
'Gáire' is a laugh, while 'aoibh' is a pleasant expression or smile; the phrase 'aoibh an gháire' means a smiling face.
How do you say someone is in a good or bad mood using 'aoibh'?
Say 'Tá aoibh mhaith air' for a good mood and 'Tá drochaoibh air' for a bad mood.
