(2) Before the names of some countries, as, an Spáinn, Spain; an Ḟrainc, France; rí na h‑Éireann, the king of Ireland; also before Rome, ’san Róiṁ, in Rome; ó’n Róiṁ, from Rome. The article is not used before the names of Ireland, England or Scotland in the nominative and dative cases.
(3) Before abstract nouns: an t‑ocras, hunger.
We frequently use an bás for “death.”
The article is not used in such sentences, as:—
- Tá ocras orm. I am hungry.
(4) Before nouns qualified by the demonstrative adjectives: an fear sain, that man; an ḃean so, this woman.
(5) Before adjectives used as nouns:
- an ṁaiṫ agus an t‑olc, goodness and badness.
(6) After “Cé” meaning “which” or “what.”
- Cé an fear? Which man?
- Cé an leaḃar? What book ?
(7) To translate “apiece,” “per” or “a” before words expressing weight and measure;
- Raol an ceann. Sixpence apiece.
In speaking of a period of time sa (ins an) is used, as, uair sa mbliaḋain, once a year.
