That is lovely to hear Karen, thank you! Or should I say, go raibh maith agat!
Five Fun and Free Ways to Learn Irish
Written by Ciaran on Jul 31, 2019 | 2 Comments
Many of our friends around the globe get in touch looking to have words or phrases translated into Irish. We love sharing the language of our home and if you want to learn or improve your Irish we are only too happy to point you in the right direction!
Learning any language can be tricky and learning Irish is no exception, especially if you are not based in Ireland! But with access to the internet a world of opportunity is opened up to you with many ways pick up a Cúpla Focal and more.
1. Have Fun
At this stage everyone has heard of Duolingo, a free language learning app which offers addictive gamified lessons that we’ve got hooked on! The site has more than 300 million learners, and over 1 million are learning Irish! Accessible through their site or an app on your phone, just a few minutes practice each day will give you a great start at learning Irish.
As one of our best-loved Irish proverbs advises, “Is tUs maith leath na hoibre” A good beginning is half the work!
2. Go Back to School
It has never been easier, and you don’t even have to leave the house! We recently took part in an Open Online Course on the Irish Language by DCU and the Book of Kells by TCD. Irish universities regularly run free courses on aspects of Irish culture and history. It is a great way to learn and interact with likeminded people from around the world!
3. Immerse Yourself
Raidió na Gaeltachta and TG4 can be challenging even for fluent Irish speakers but watching children’s TV with subtitles can be an easier way to immerse yourself in the language without visiting the Gaeltacht! And if you like a soap operas, the long-running Ros na Rún will give you your dramatic fix as Gaeilge! For music lovers Raidió Rí Rá is a great listen!
4. Get Social
Many are trying to limit their time on Social Media but these sites can be great places for learning and practicing Irish. The Irish proverb, “Giorraíonn beirt bóthar.” or “Two people shorten a road.” is right!
And of course you can also search out Irish speakers where you are! Using the language is the fastest way to learn. Their are Gaeltacht communities around the world with more springing up each year. It can be scary to go out and try it but people with an interest in learning Irish will be welcomed with open arms! Good luck and remember, “Taithí a dhéanann máistreacht” or “Practice makes perfect!”
5. Lifelong Learning
We are still learning here at My Irish Jeweler and showing our gra or love for Gaeilge with our jewelry that includes beautiful Irish phrases. We also have a Youtube channel with a few "How to say.." videos that are a good place to start. And of course we are always happy to help with any translations you might have.
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Ciaran
My Irish Jeweler
Born in Co. Antrim and reared in Dublin, I was fascinated with Gaelic culture from an early age. I suppose it's not surprising given my mother inherited a grá for the Irish language from my grandfather, an Irish school headmaster. And that grá continues! My brother and sister are now Gaelic teachers here in Ireland, my niece is an award winning Irish dancer, and I proudly work to share Irish culture through our Irish and Celtic Jewelry at My Irish Jeweler!
I love researching and reading about the history of Irish design. It's at the core of what we do here at My Irish Jeweler. I find much of it so interesting that I have to share what I find. I hope you enjoy it!
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Ask Gemma
I enjoy your site so much. Thank you