HeyRuaHow to say “shortness” in Irish
- Irish:
- giorra
- English:
- shortness, nearness
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “GYIR-uh” /ˈɟɪɾˠə/
- Genitive singular:
- giorra, na giorra (e.g. de bharr giorra an ama, because of the shortness of the time)
What does “giorra” mean?
“Giorra” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- shortness
- The quality of being short in length, distance or time.Also: brevity, nearness, closeness.
1 other meaning: nearness
- 2nearness
- Closeness in distance or time, as in 'ag dul i ngiorra', getting nearer.Also: proximity, closeness.
Other Irish words for shortness: giorracht (shortness)
“Giorra” with the article
Here is giorra after the article (an t-alt).
“Giorra” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using giorra, the Irish word for shortness.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Shortness in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for shortness?
The Irish for shortness is giorra (pronounced “GYIR-uh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean nearness.
How do you pronounce giorra in Irish?
Giorra is said like “GYIR-uh” (IPA /ˈɟɪɾˠə/).
Does giorra have a plural?
No plural form is given for giorra in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does giorra have more than one meaning?
Yes. Giorra can mean shortness or nearness, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does giorra change to ghiorra or ngiorra?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) giorra becomes mo ghiorra (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngiorra (eclipsis).
How do I say something is getting shorter or nearer?
Use 'ag dul i ngiorra': tá na laethanta ag dul i ngiorra, the days are getting shorter.
How is 'giorra' related to 'gearr'?
'Giorra' is the abstract noun of the adjective 'gearr' (short), and it also serves as its comparative: níos giorra, shorter.
