I'm learning Gaeilge

cosaint — meaning in English: protection

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for protection
anfóin
cosaint
sóid
ochó
troma
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Irish for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'cosaint' when discussing legal matters, personal safety, or family matters, particularly in contexts where safeguarding is essential. For example, one might say, 'Tá cosaint ag teastáil do na leanaí' ('Protection is needed for the children') when talking about children's welfare in schools or communities.
Synonyms & nuances
'Cosaint' is often used in a broader sense compared to synonyms like 'saoire' (safe) or 'díon' (shelter). While 'saoire' implies safety in a general sense, 'cosaint' emphasizes an active form of protection, making it the go-to choice in discussions around defense or guardianship.
Culture
'Cosaint' comes from the Irish verb 'cosaint', which means 'to protect' or 'to defend'. In Irish culture, the concept of protection often extends beyond physical safety to include emotional and spiritual safeguarding, reflecting the community-oriented nature of Irish society. This word can be seen in many Irish proverbs emphasizing the importance of protecting family and community.
FAQ
Q.What does 'cosaint' mean in English?
'Cosaint' translates to 'protection' in English. It refers to the act of safeguarding someone or something from harm or danger.
Q.How do you use 'cosaint' in a sentence?
You can use 'cosaint' in contexts like 'Tá cosaint uaim i gcónaí' which means 'I always need protection.' This illustrates its use in personal or emotional contexts.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'cosaint'?
A common mistake is confusing 'cosaint' with 'díon', which means 'shelter'. Remember, 'cosaint' implies active protection, while 'díon' refers more to a physical space offering safety.
Learn irish with Maspeak →
Irish Vocabulary