HeyRuaHow to say “wild” in Irish
- Irish:
- allta
- English:
- wild, wild-looking
- Word type:
- adjective
- Wilder:
- níos allta
- Wildest:
- is allta
- Pronunciation:
- “OWL-ta” /ˈaul̪ˠt̪ˠə/
What does “allta” mean?
“Allta” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- wild
- Living in a natural state, not tamed or domesticated, usually said of animals.Also: untamed, feral, savage.
“Allta” after a noun
An Irish adjective comes after its noun. Here is allta after ainmhí (animal, masculine), after muc (pig, feminine) and after a plural.
With a plural noun the adjective takes its plural form, allta.
Wilder, wildest, very wild
Tá an cat seo níos allta ná an ceann eile. This cat is wilder than the other one.
| wilder | níos allta | in the past tense: ní b'allta |
|---|---|---|
| wildest | is allta | in the past tense: ab allta |
| as wild as | chomh hallta le | chomh puts an h before a vowel |
| very wild | an-allta | an- lenites, except d, t and s |
| too wild | ró-allta | ró- lenites |
“Allta” in a sentence: Irish examples
With a masculine noun, a feminine noun, a plural, a comparison and on its own.
Other adjectives in Irish
More everyday Irish adjectives to learn next.
Wild in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for wild?
The Irish for wild is allta (pronounced “OWL-ta”). It comes after the noun: ainmhí allta, a wild animal; muc allta, a wild pig.
How do you say wilder and wildest in Irish?
níos allta is wilder and is allta is wildest. In the past tense they become ní b'allta and ab allta.
How do you say very wild in Irish?
an-allta. Too wild is ró-allta, and as wild as is chomh hallta le.
Does allta have more than one meaning?
Yes. Allta can mean wild or wild-looking, depending on context; the first is the most common.
What is the difference between 'allta' and 'fiáin'?
Both mean wild, but 'allta' is used mainly of untamed animals, as in 'ainmhí allta', while 'fiáin' is broader and also describes wild places, weather or behaviour.
