The words of Ireland

Ireland — quotes, proverbs & wisdom

Real words from the people of Ireland, each with a verified source. New quotes are added as each is fact-checked.

“There is no strength without unity.”

Ní neart go cur le chéile.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“A good start is half the work.”

Tús maith leath na hoibre.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“There is no fireside like your own fireside.”

Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“It is in the shelter of each other that people live.”

Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“Health is better than wealth.”

Is fearr an tsláinte ná na táinte.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“Praise the youth and they will flourish.”

Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“Broken Irish is better than clever English.”

Is fearr Gaeilge bhriste ná Béarla cliste.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“Often a person's mouth broke their nose.”

Is minic a bhris béal duine a shrón.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“What is seldom is wonderful.”

An rud is annamh is iontach.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition

“Travellers have tales to tell.”

Bíonn siúlach scéalach.

Source: Traditional Irish seanfhocal, public-domain oral tradition