Deitir

Deitir is a term that appears in discussions of the Irish language (Gaeilge) and is generally associated with the passive voice of verbs of speech. In English, its sense is close to “it is said” or “they say.” In standard modern Irish, the usual way to express this idea is with the passive forms deirtear or deítear, which derive from the verb deir (to say) and carry the impersonal, reporting meaning. The form deitir is not part of the current standard orthography, but it can be found in older texts, certain dialect writings, or as a nonstandard variant in some learning materials.

Grammatical notes: The most common passive equivalents in Irish are deirtear and deítear. Deirtear is the typical impersonal passive used in formal writing and general narration, while deítear is encountered in dialectal or regional usage. Both forms convey the sense that a statement is being attributed in an indefinite way rather than to a specific subject. The choice between deirtear and deítear can reflect dialect, register, or the conventions of a particular text.

Usage and examples: Deirtear go raibh an scéal fíor. (It is said that the story was true.) Deítear go mbeadh an cheist ina freagra. (It is said that the question would be the answer.) In practice, deirtear is far more common in modern Irish prose, while deítear appears in some dialectal writings or stylistic contexts.

See also: Irish language, Passive voice, Deir, Deirtear, Deítear, Irish grammar.