HeyRuaHow to say “torment” in Irish
- Irish:
- crá
- English:
- torment, vexation
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Verbal noun of:
- cráigh, to torment (ag crá, tormenting)
- Gender:
- masculine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “kraw” /kɾˠaː/
- Genitive singular:
- crá, an chrá (e.g. lá an chrá, the day of torment)
What does “crá” mean?
“Crá” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- torment
- Great mental or physical suffering, or the act of tormenting someone; it is the verbal noun of the verb cráigh.Also: anguish, torture, tormenting, agony.
“Crá” as a verbal noun
After ag, crá means tormenting: it is the verbal noun of the verb cráigh (to torment). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.
“Crá” with the article
Here is crá after the article (an t-alt).
“Crá” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using crá, the Irish word for torment.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Torment in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for torment?
The Irish for torment is crá (pronounced “kraw”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean vexation.
How do you pronounce crá in Irish?
Crá is said like “kraw” (IPA /kɾˠaː/).
Does crá have a plural?
No plural form is given for crá in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does crá have more than one meaning?
Yes. Crá can mean torment or vexation, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does crá change to chrá or gcrá?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) crá becomes mo chrá (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcrá (eclipsis).
What does 'crá croí' mean?
Crá croí literally means 'torment of heart' and is used for heartache or for a person or thing that is a constant nuisance, e.g. Is crá croí é an carr sin.
How is 'crá' used as a verbal noun?
It is the verbal noun of cráigh, so 'ag crá' means tormenting or annoying: Tá sé do mo chrá means 'He is tormenting me'.
