HeyRuaHow to say “start” in Irish
- Irish:
- bíogadh
- English:
- start, chirping
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “BEE-guh” /ˈbʲiːɡə/
- Genitive singular:
- bíogtha, an bhíogtha (e.g. de bharr an bhíogtha, because of the start)
What does “bíogadh” mean?
“Bíogadh” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- start
- A sudden jump or jerk of surprise or fright; the verbal noun of the verb bíog, to start or jump.Also: startle, jump, jerk, flinch.
“Bíogadh” with the article
Here is bíogadh after the article (an t-alt).
“Bíogadh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using bíogadh, the Irish word for start.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Start in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for start?
The Irish for start is bíogadh (pronounced “BEE-guh”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean chirping.
How do you pronounce bíogadh in Irish?
Bíogadh is said like “BEE-guh” (IPA /ˈbʲiːɡə/).
Does bíogadh have a plural?
No plural form is given for bíogadh in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does bíogadh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Bíogadh can mean start or chirping, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does bíogadh change to bhíogadh or mbíogadh?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) bíogadh becomes mo bhíogadh (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár mbíogadh (eclipsis).
What is the difference between bíogadh and geit?
Both mean a start of surprise; geit is the more common word, as in 'bhain sé geit asam', while 'bhain sé bíogadh asam' means much the same.
