HeyRuaHow to say “sorrow” in Irish
- Irish:
- buaireamh
- English:
- sorrow, vexation
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Verbal noun of:
- buair, to worry (ag buaireamh, worrying)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “BOO-ir-oo” /ˈbˠuəɾʲəw/
- Genitive singular:
- buairimh, an bhuairimh (e.g. cúis bhuairimh, a cause of sorrow)
What does “buaireamh” mean?
“Buaireamh” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- sorrow
- A feeling of grief, trouble or distress of mind.Also: grief, distress, trouble, anxiety.
“Buaireamh” as a verbal noun
After ag, buaireamh means worrying: it is the verbal noun of the verb buair (to worry). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.
“Buaireamh” with the article
Here is buaireamh after the article (an t-alt).
“Buaireamh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using buaireamh, the Irish word for sorrow.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Sorrow in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for sorrow?
The Irish for sorrow is buaireamh (pronounced “BOO-ir-oo”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean vexation.
How do you pronounce buaireamh in Irish?
Buaireamh is said like “BOO-ir-oo” (IPA /ˈbˠuəɾʲəw/).
Does buaireamh have a plural?
No plural form is given for buaireamh in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does buaireamh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Buaireamh can mean sorrow or vexation, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does buaireamh change to bhuaireamh or mbuaireamh?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) buaireamh becomes mo bhuaireamh (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár mbuaireamh (eclipsis).
How does buaireamh differ from brón?
Brón is the ordinary word for sadness, while buaireamh suggests sorrow mixed with worry or vexation, as in 'tá buaireamh orm'.
