Some common phrases and idioms used in Ireland

English is the main language spoken in Ireland. There are, however, some uniquely Irish words and phrases that are commonly used in everyday settings.

Your colleagues are the best resource—don’t hesitate to ask them if you hear something you don’t understand!

Here are just a few examples you are likely to hear:

• Craic (pronounced crack) = Fun e.g. ‘What’s the craic?’ or ‘Any craic?’
• Donkeys’ years = a long time eg ‘It’s been donkeys’ years since I was last in Co Mayo.’
• Eejit = foolish person
• Fair play = good job e.g. ‘Fair play to you, that looks great.’
• Fella = man or boy
• Giving out = complaining or scolding e.g. ‘My teacher was giving out to me about my late arrival at school.’
• Grand = Fine, good, ok e.g. ‘Weather is grand’, ‘I’m grand’.
• A press = a cupboard
• That’s gas = that’s funny

You will also notice that people from different parts of Ireland can have quite different accents.  You will become familiar with the accent in your location quite quickly, and over time you will also become familiar with other accents from around the country.