Questions and Answers
Irish has no words for "yes" and "no". The answer to a question contains a repetition (the same as in Latin) of the verb, either with or without a negative particle. For analytic forms, only the verb is given and the subject is not repeated. If a verb has different dependent and independent forms, the dependent form follows the interrogative or negative particle. The independent form is used where there is no particle.
- An éisteann Seán lena mháthair riamh? "Does Seán ever listen to his mother?"
- Éisteann. (not: *Éisteann sé) "Yes, he does."
- Ní éisteann. (not: *Ní éisteann sé) "No, he doesn't."
- Nach bhfuil tú ag éisteacht liom? "Aren't you listening to me?"
- Táim. "Yes, I am."
- Nílim. "No, I'm not."
Read more about this topic: Irish Syntax
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