The “S” letter is pronounced in two major ways in the Irish language:
- Broad S which sounds like “ssss” in English
- Slender S which sounds like “shhh” in English
Watch the video for an explanation of how you can tell the difference.
If you’re a member of Bitesize Irish, you can take our full video course “Crack Irish Pronunciation” about pronouncing the Irish language. Become a member.
4 thoughts on “How to Pronounce “S” in Irish”
Físeán iontach suimiúil anseo a chairde!
Go hiontach 🙂
I don’t want to try to learn all possible dialects. Which one should I concentrate on?
Trish, sticking to one dialect is a good idea!
I would recommend listening to the various dialects and picking which you like best.
Here’s an Ulster radio show: https://www.rte.ie/radio/radioplayer/html5/#/rnag/11161399
Connacht radio show: https://www.rte.ie/radio/radioplayer/html5/#/rnag/11161396
Munster radio show: https://www.rte.ie/radio/radioplayer/html5/#/rnag/11161400