Here is a look at some choice phrase from Irish women to help you decode the true meaning of their mutterings. Most of these words ring true to your average female, but for a few we have offered an Irish twist. If you want to keep that special Irish lady happy, consult these explanations.
1. Fine:
This is the word used by women at the end of an argument, when they are normally in the right. ‘Fine’ signals that the argument is over. I wouldn’t try to follow it up.
2. Five Minutes:
Of course when any woman tells you five minutes, this usually means at least half an hour, especially when she’s getting dressed. I know one husband who likes to sit in the car waiting and calls the house phone in an attempt to hurry his wife up, but it never works!
3. Nothing:
Of course when an Irish woman says “nothing" when asked what is wrong, it’s far from nothing she means. Arguments that begin with "nothing" usually end in "fine." I know it’s tempting to probe when the word is uttered but better to keep your mouth shut and avoid the possible annoyance.
4. Go Ahead :
You want to cancel our dinner plans, so you can go out for a drink with the lads? “Go ahead." It’s a dare, not an approval. Don’t cross that bold Irish woman.
5. Loud Sigh :
An Irish woman loves a good sigh, there is nothing like it. Of course this isn’t a word, but it can be much more significant. A loud sigh signifies the woman is contemplating what on earth she is doing wasting her time arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to 3 for meaning of nothing)
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6. That's Okay:
Of course this is a dangerous statement, is it really "Okay?" Normally not. Dependant on the tone this choice phrase is delivered in, it normally means you will need to do some damage control in the not-so-distant future.
7. Thanks:
Normally this can just mean that a woman is simply thanking you. However if she utters “thanks a lot,” this can mean pure sarcasm. On this occasion, don’t respond with "welcome," as this could result in a “whatever.”
8. Whatever:
Just walk away! She’s pissed off and this could easily escalate into a burly row. Better to just cut your losses.
9. Don't worry about it, I got it:
Usually delivered after a woman has asked a man several times to do something and no action has been taken. Taking the bull by the horns, the Irish woman will get the job done herself.
10. Grand:
This is a notice of approval. Generally it means she’s in agreement with you. You should welcome this turn of phrase, the lady is content!
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Switch to the desktop site to post a comment.themurphia | Jul 26, 2011, 02:28 PM EDT
feliciam:thanks...cryptic....!I would say that in Irish but obviously it is an exclusive club...!
feliciamaisey | Jul 26, 2011, 07:53 AM EDT
themurphia: Mamaginnty all agree with - as usual with me. There is no Irish. (I think that is what eiramach said.
feliciamaisey | Jul 26, 2011, 07:52 AM EDT
Mamaginnty all agree with - as usual with me. There is no Irish.
themurphia | Jul 25, 2011, 04:58 PM EDT
eiramach/mamag:can you translate for those who are not as fluent as you as gaeilge...?that way we can all take part in the debate...we didn't all get the opportunity to learn our first language...!This is a website for the Diaspora after all!
eiriamach | Jul 24, 2011, 05:25 PM EDT
Aontaim le mamaginnty go léir--mar is gnách liom. Níl Gaeilge ar bith ann.
themurphia | Jul 24, 2011, 05:13 AM EDT
Another expression used a lot by the idigenous Irish tho' niot exclusively women is 'I don't mind'...to any suggestion...it's so energy sapping...just say YES or NO...It's as if they want other people to make the decisions for them and therefore cannot be held accountable for their choices...Just takes the pleasure out of the social/occasion...Just SAY what you want to do/eat drink/see/or where you want to go...No-one is going to be offended!Jeeeez!
adrienrain | Jul 23, 2011, 02:59 PM EDT
Only 'grand' is particular to the Irish. Most of the rest seem quite American...........
mamaginnty | Jul 23, 2011, 01:12 PM EDT
none of these are irish....ach iarracht é boyo.
casualMBA | Jul 23, 2011, 12:52 PM EDT
brutish comment, really
casualMBA | Jul 23, 2011, 12:51 PM EDT
lovely
Springfield9 | Jul 23, 2011, 12:30 PM EDT
Bernie your going to be gelded ........ a prophesy.
Sparklet | Jul 23, 2011, 11:17 AM EDT
Are you running out of articles? This is on t-shirts, and countless emails world-wide, and in no way specific to Irish women!
boydshield | Jul 23, 2011, 10:47 AM EDT
My offer to be hired as a proofreader still stands (see #5).
nanny2sorli | Jul 23, 2011, 10:13 AM EDT
I don't think these phrases are used solely by Irish women, think most women use them, I know my English,Canadian & Irish friends and I do, and laugh at ourselves whilst feeling sympathetic for our males! However, the 9th one sounds more like an Americanism, we tend to say "I've" rather than "I". (I've noticed that "have" when they've got something.)
themurphia | Jul 23, 2011, 08:55 AM EDT
I hate this passive aggressive b/s...SAY what you want/ don't want and/or what you mean...be CLEAR then no-one is in any doubt...saves energy and misunderstanding...I watched my parents playing these mind games...drove me NUTS...I just wanted to scream GROW UP...! !