Irish Translation Forum

When using dictionaries, how do you determine which translation is the one you need? In another thread I needed a translation for the word 'gift'. The word 'bronntanas' was given to me, but I also found that and 'feírín'. So how do you know other obvious context clues?

they both mean, gift, as in "present"

In my dictionary I have given examples next to the varying translations that specify the actual meaning of the word.

you have to cross check it with another dictionary, but really, most online dictionaries are only there to give an idea and there are no guarantees for them

you really have to get a print dictionary if you want secondary information about words like that

All right thanks for your help.

Klandestinie wrote:When using dictionaries, how do you determine which translation is the one you need? In another thread I needed a translation for the word 'gift'. The word 'bronntanas' was given to me, but I also found that and 'feírín'. So how do you know other obvious context clues?

Bronntanas is the main word for "present"

Think about the word 'gift' in English. You could give someone a gift, you could have a gift, such as a good singing voice, or the ability to play a musical instrument.

JSmith13 wrote:Think about the word 'gift' in English. You could give someone a gift, you could have a gift, such as a good singing voice, or the ability to play a musical instrument.

A "gift" e.g. for music is "bua".

Tá bua an cheoil aige.

I was just trying to convey the difference in words used essentially for the same word in English, i.e the word 'GIFT' Give a gift My musical abilities are a gift