With St. Patrick’s day fast approaching we thought we would provide you with some typical Irish phrases that you may hear over the upcoming Bank Holiday weekend. St. Patrick’s day is a cultural and religious celebration for Irish people. On St. Patrick’s day people usually attend parades that take place all over the country. Celebrations are generally themed around all things Irish and all things green.
There are many wonderful stories about St. Patrick some are true some are untrue. The most famous legend is that he drove the snakes out of Ireland. This did not happen, but the Irish will tell you that you cannot find a snake throughout the entire country of Ireland.
Firstly if somebody is referred to as ‘acting the maggot’ which is sure to happen this weekend. It simply means they are up to no good.
When you hear somebody is ‘happy out’ they are very content in their current surroundings.
Now ‘awful good’ is a phrase used by the Irish. However, when used in these terms it in fact
means ‘very’ not awful. Us Irish like to make things confusing. While we are on the subject ‘quare’ can also mean ‘very’ something may be referred to as being ‘quare good’.
If you happen to be at a parade over the weekend and are questioned ‘was it any use?’ it simply means ‘was it any good?’
‘Ara’ is an expression used from the country that fits before your name usually it can be used if a person doesn’t believe you, is disappointed, surprised, or really any other feeling.
‘It’s grand’ is a very common phrase used by Irish on a day to day basis, simply meaning it’s fine, it does the required task.
If you are told ‘the craic was 90’ this refers to the fun and atmosphere being excellent.
‘I will yeah’ is commonly said in response to a person when asked to do something which they have absolutely no intention of doing.
Finally whilst in Ireland you may be offered ‘a bag of taytos’ but there’s no need to worry you are just being asked if you would like a packet of crisps.
