The Irish are well known for their colorful proverbs, idioms, and figures of speech. In honor of St. Patrick's Day, here are 9 of the best Irish expressions along with their English translations.
Translation: “Many a time a man’s mouth broke his nose.”
Perhaps you know someone whose “mouth has broken his nose” before. If not, you surely know someone whose nose is only intact by virtue of sheer luck.
Translation: Two people shorten a road.
A long trip is always more fun when you’re with good company. A side note: Did you know the Irish language uses a different set of numerals when you’re counting people? It’s true- in this sentence, “beirt” means “two people.” Two objects would be “a dó.”
Translation: “Under the shelter of each other, people survive” or “We live protected under each other’s shadow.”
This heartwarming proverb reminds us how important it is to take care of each other.
Translation: "A goat dressed in silk is still a goat."
This idiom is the Irish equivalent of "You can't make a purse out of a sow's ear" or "You can't put lipstick on a pig."
Translation: When the cat is outside, the mouse is dancing.
This is a more joyful version of the English proverb, “When the cat is away, the mice will play.”
Translation: May the devil make a ladder of your backbone and pluck apples in the garden of hell.
That stereotypical Irish fighting spirit comes through beautifully in this traditional curse. It sounds like something out of Bosch’s famous painting The Garden of Earthly Delights.
Translation: May the cat eat you, and the devil eat the cat.
The Irish have the best curses, don’t they?
Translation: “There’s no hearth like your own hearth.”
Put on your ruby slippers; this is the Irish equivalent of "There's no place like home."
Translation: Broken Irish is better than clever English.
Around the world, people appreciate it when you try to communicate with them in their language, even if you make mistakes. The Irish are no exception.
This particular proverb applies to individual people more than businesses or other organizations. People have higher expectations for companies, and they may perceive language and translation errors as unprofessional.
It is essential to choose the right language services provider. United Language Group’s team of experienced linguists and experts are here to help. Please take a look at the services we offer and the industries we serve, and contact us for your next project.