Irish Sayings Trivia Quiz

Answer: Someone who goes over the top in a good or a bad manner

The saying "A right headcase" is used throughout Ireland and is often used as a term of endearment for someone behaving in a very comical/funny sense. It can also be used as a derogatory comment for someone who behaves in a bad, outlandish manner.

Answer: I'm late/behind with housework.

This saying has to be one of my favourite sayings. Its meaning is light hearted and originates from Woman of Ireland - Mna na Eireann.
When the common workplace for a woman was in the home, children would be washed and dressed before any other housework duties would be carried out. If a woman commented on the time of day and said, "Not a child in the house washed", it meant she was very far behind with her daily duties. Today it refers to being late.

Answer: Stupid

This saying is widely used and understood throughout Ireland. It's a very derogatory comment and refers to someone who acts in a very foolish manner and/or one who is ignorant.

Answer: What's happening?

The word 'crack' originated from the Old English word 'cracian', meaning to make a loud sound. From the 14th century, one of its meanings was to speak openly. If asked, "What's the crack?" by an Irish person, you are expected to give a reply which includes information on how you are, what you are doing, where are you going, with whom are you going there, and if you know any interesting gossip.

Answer: Very heavy rain

To say "It's lashing down" in Ireland refers to the weather and simply means that it is raining very heavily.

Answer: Something said to person that is not looking their best/often hung-over

"The head on you and the price of turnips" is widely used as a derogatory reference to a person's appearance. It is most commonly used to someone who looks as though they are suffering from the effects of a hangover. Although 'turnip' is the most commonly used word in this saying, it has been known to differ from each county. Some counties use the word 'cabbage' instead of turnip in this saying. The usage and meaning remain the same.

Answer: Someone foolish

Originating from Co. Cork but widely used and understood throughout Ireland, "Some langer" is a reference to someone who is foolish and/or acting in a foolish manner.

Answer: Come to your senses

A saying requesting that someone should comes to their senses and behave themselves. "Would ya ever cop yerself on" and "Cop on to yerself" are very common sayings in Ireland.

Answer: A person who is envious

This is widely used in Ireland. The word begrudger, from the verb begrudge, is mostly heard in the saying "Feic the begrudgers". English translation for the Gaelic 'Feic' is 'to see'. Its meaning is a dismissive reference to someone who is envious of another people.

Answer: It's great/brilliant.

This saying originates from Co. Cork Ireland and is understood nationwide. 'Tis' is a local phrase for 'It is' and 'only massive' refers to the brilliance of something or someone.