Learning the Irish Language: Basic Phrases and Tips

HSI Blogger
Apr 8
3 min read

Studying abroad in Ireland isn’t just about exploring beautiful landscapes or attending an Irish high school - it’s also about embracing the unique culture. One of the most enriching parts of this experience is learning the Irish language, known as Gaeilge. While most daily conversation in Ireland is in English, Irish remains a proud and significant part of the country’s identity, especially in schools and cultural contexts.

Whether you're planning your exchange soon or you're already packing your bags, picking up some basic Irish phrases will help you connect more deeply with Irish culture - and impress your host family too!

🇮🇪 Why Learn Irish While Studying Abroad in Ireland?

Even though Irish is not widely spoken in everyday conversation across most of Ireland, it holds official language status and is taught in all Irish schools. In fact, you’ll likely encounter it on road signs, official documents, and even casual greetings.

For Irish students, learning Irish is a compulsory part of the school curriculum. This national policy plays an essential role in keeping the language alive for future generations. However, international students are not required to learn Irish when attending secondary school in Ireland. That said, taking the initiative to learn a few words or phrases is a wonderful way to immerse yourself and show respect for the culture.

Here’s why learning some Irish is worth your time:

🗣️ Cultural Respect – Demonstrates appreciation for Irish heritage.
🧠 Enhanced Learning – Helps you better understand local customs and history.
💬 Improved Immersion – Makes interactions in school and with locals more meaningful.
🏫 Academic Advantage – Some schools may offer optional Irish lessons to interested international students.

🗨️ Basic Irish Phrases for Everyday Use

Here are some simple phrases that can come in handy during your exchange:

English	Irish (Gaeilge)	Pronunciation
Hello	Dia dhuit	Dee-ah gwit
How are you?	Conas atá tú?	Cun-ass a-taw too?
Thank you	Go raibh maith agat	Guh rev mah a-gut
Please	Le do thoil	Leh duh hull
Goodbye	Slán	Slawn
Yes / No	Tá / Níl	Taw / Neel
My name is...	...is ainm dom	...iss ann-im dum
I don’t understand	Ní thuigim	Nee hig-im

Learning these phrases can break the ice with locals and earn you plenty of smiles!

💡 Top Tips for Learning the Irish Language

Picking up a new language - even just a little - can feel challenging at first. But these study abroad language tips can make it easier and more enjoyable:

🏞️ 1. Explore the Gaeltacht Regions

Ireland has special areas called Gaeltacht where Irish is spoken daily. If you get a chance to visit (or are placed nearby), use it as an immersive opportunity to practise what you’ve learned.

📚 2. Use Language Apps

Apps like Duolingo and Teanglann.ie offer beginner-friendly tools and pronunciation guides. They’re great for daily practice and remembering key vocabulary.

📺 3. Watch Irish TV or Listen to Radio

RTÉ and TG4 have shows, news, and even cartoons in Irish. Listening to native pronunciation helps improve your accent and understanding.

📓 4. Keep a Phrase Journal

Write down any new Irish words or phrases you hear during your stay. Jotting things down reinforces memory - and it becomes a fun souvenir too!

🧍‍♀️ 5. Practise with Locals and Classmates

Don’t be shy! Most Irish people are proud of their language and will be happy to help you learn.

📌 Enhance Your Cultural Immersion

Learning Irish isn’t just an academic task - it’s a gateway to understanding Ireland more deeply. When you study abroad in Ireland, every bit of effort you make to embrace the language enriches your exchange journey.

Even though international students aren’t required to study Irish, using a few phrases here and there can show your enthusiasm and curiosity - two qualities that always lead to a more meaningful cultural exchange.

📥 Ready to Learn More? Download Our Brochure!

Want to dive deeper into Irish culture and language? Discover everything our exchange programme has to offer - Download our free brochure here and get started on your Irish adventure!