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Self-control in Irish (Guaim): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

The Irish for self-control is guaim, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “self-control” in Irish

Irish:
guaim
English:
self-control
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine, second declension
Pronunciation:
“goo-im”  /ɡuəmʲ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
guaime, na guaime (e.g. easpa guaime, lack of self-control)

What does “guaim” mean?

self-control
The ability to keep your feelings and behaviour under control, especially when angry or upset.Also: self-restraint, composure, restraint, control.

Other Irish words for self-control: disciplín (discipline), féinsmacht (self-control)

“Guaim” with the article

Here is guaim after the article (an t-alt).

an ghuaim
the self-control
Lenition: g becomes gh after an (feminine noun)

“Guaim” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using guaim, the Irish word for self-control.

Coinnigh guaim ort féin, a mhic.
Control yourself, son.
Chaill sé a ghuaim nuair a chuala sé an scéal.
He lost his temper when he heard the news.
Níl aon ghuaim aici ar a teanga.
She has no control over her tongue.
Choinnigh an múinteoir guaim air féin go dtí an deireadh.
The teacher kept his composure until the end.
Ba léir go raibh easpa guaime air.
It was clear he lacked self-control.
Choinnigh an t-imreoir guaim air féin.
The player kept his composure.
Bhí sí ar tí a guaim a chailleadh.
She was about to lose her composure.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Self-control in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for self-control?

The Irish for self-control is guaim (pronounced “goo-im”). It’s a feminine noun.

How do you pronounce guaim in Irish?

Guaim is said like “goo-im” (IPA /ɡuəmʲ/).

Does guaim have a plural?

No plural form is given for guaim in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Why does guaim change to ghuaim or nguaim?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) guaim becomes mo ghuaim (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár nguaim (eclipsis).

How do I say 'control yourself' using guaim?

Say 'Coinnigh guaim ort féin', literally 'keep restraint on yourself'.

What is the difference between guaim and smacht?

Guaim is self-restraint over your own emotions, while smacht is control or discipline more generally, often over others.

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