learning gaelic

[jthk]

Thank you, neloon

My heritage is from Argyll. Some of the Canadian census records denote (Gael) parenthetically with the native country being Scotland. I would assume they would have spoken the Dalriada dialect. But being that Scotland has lost so many native speakers, I thought that a middle of the road background would be a good path to begin upon. It is my understanding that the scots and Irish can communicate in Gaelic without much difficulty, so Scot to Scot shouldn't be too bad ... even if one of the scots is American ")

First of all, I would like to offer encouragement and support in your journey! Do it! Now, based on the conversation, I'm assuming you mean you'd like to learn Scottish Gaelic ... of which I have none. But I am a fluent Irish Gaelic speaker and yes, I can communicate with Scottish Gaelic speakers but it's touch and go at best -- for me. I speak Donegal Irish (Ulster) and our spelling is similar to some of Gaelic spelling but with regards to pronunciation, I'd say Gaelic speakers are a bit more similar to Munster Irish speakers.

Anyway, both Scottish and Irish Gaelic are lovely languages and I heartily congratulate you and offer support.

Best,
Jonathan