HeyRuaHow to say “world” in Irish
- Irish:
- bith
- English:
- world, life
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “bih” /bʲɪh/
- Genitive singular:
- beatha, an bheatha (e.g. crann beatha, tree of life)
What does “bith” mean?
“Bith” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- world
- The world or existence; mainly found in set phrases such as 'ar bith' (at all, any) and 'ar domhan is ar bith'.Also: existence, being, any, at all.
“Bith” with the article
Here is bith after the article (an t-alt).
“Bith” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using bith, the Irish word for world.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
World in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for world?
The Irish for world is bith (pronounced “bih”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean life.
How do you pronounce bith in Irish?
Bith is said like “bih” (IPA /bʲɪh/).
Does bith have a plural?
No plural form is given for bith in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does bith have more than one meaning?
Yes. Bith can mean world or life, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does bith change to bhith or mbith?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) bith becomes mo bhith (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár mbith (eclipsis).
How is 'ar bith' used?
'Ar bith' follows a noun to mean 'any' or, with a negative, 'no ... at all': 'Níl airgead ar bith agam' means 'I have no money at all'.
Is 'bith' the same as 'beith'?
No. 'Bith' means world or existence, while 'beith' is the birch tree.
