If you visit an Irish pub or meet with Irish folks, you’ll probably hear “What’s the craic?” You will likely be confused. What does this curious question mean? What is the Irish craic? And where to find it?
Be reassured, this has nothing to do with crack, even though it’s pronounced the same way in Ireland.
Ready to learn some Irish slang and experience a great craic?
Meaning
Craic is an Irish word that is often used by locals on the Emerald Isle. It describes a great atmosphere, fun times, an amazing night out, an enjoyable moment. You can use this word to describe anything fun, basically.
The origins of this Irish English term are disputed among linguists. Some think it came from the Middle English crak (“loud conversation”), others believe it originated from Northern Ireland or Scotland with the word crack (“conversation, news”).
Anyway, craic is not a simple word; it’s a way of life. It represents the social side of Irish culture. You know, this great feeling when you’re surrounded by good friends, having the time of your life and sharing stories over a pint or two. In Ireland, this often happens in public houses.
Common Irish phrases using craic are:
- What’s the craic? — “How are you?”, “What’s up?”, “What’s happening?”
- Any craic? — “Any news?”, “What’s new?”, “Any gossips?”
- How was the craic? — “What is good?”, “Did you have fun?”
- They’re good/great craic. — “They are good fun.”, “They know how to have fun.”, “They’re good company.”
- Last night was great craic. — “Last night was fun.”, “We had a great time last night.”
Levels of craic
There are different levels of craic, depending on how good an event was (or wasn’t):
- Minus craic or no craic – The event was awful, no fun at all. You should have stayed home.
- Good craic – It was OK, nothing special happened. The event wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t extraordinary.
- The craic was mighty – It was a good event, but it could have been better. A mighty craic is still better than a good craic.
- Savage craic – It was a great experience. You have a lot of fun stories to share about the event!
- Deadly craic – It was a really great event and you had an incredible time!
- The craic was 90 – You had the best time of your life: the event was out of this world! You’ll remember this event forever.
Irish slang
Irish slang, or Irish English, is called Hiberno-English. It’s a mix of Gaelic and English.
Here are some other Irish slang words and phrases you can use to impress your friends next time you’ll meet them at the pub:
- That’s gas. — “That’s funny.”
- Sláinte! — “Cheers!”
- The Jacks – The restroom.
- It’s bleedin’ cold. — It’s very cold.”
- Banjaxed – “completely worn out”, “very intoxicated”.
- He’s a sound fella. — “He’s very nice.”
- The show was deadly! — “The show was fantastic!”
- A gaff — Someone’s place.
- Your man/woman/one – Used to refer to somebody in the context of the story.
- I’ll be grand. — “I’ll be fine.”
Irish goodbye
If you go out with Irish friends, you might discover the Irish goodbye. This term means that someone left a party without saying goodbye. It’s also known as a French leave or Irish exit.
In Ireland, it’s common practice to sneak out of a party during a night out. And no one is offended by it. It’s part of the culture.
The Irish goodbye origins are unclear. But if you experience it in Ireland, don’t take it personally. It’s just the way Irish people (don’t) say “goodbye” to their friends or colleagues during a night out.
Chasing the craic
No need to travel to Ireland to experience the true Irish craic. At O’Sullivans, the craic is ninety every night! Guinness, whiskies, great banter, amazing music sessions and fabulous food: there is everything you need (and more) for an unforgettable night out in our pubs.
Each O’Sullivans public house is unique. And you can find us everywhere in France!
In Paris
O’Sullivans Champs-Élysées in Paris 8e, with its hidden rooms and private courtyard, is the best place to enjoy drinks after strolling along the iconic Champs-Élysées. The décor is gorgeous; the team is friendly yet professional.
If you want to experience Ireland in a Parisian setting, go to O’Sullivans Bastille. in Paris 12e. There is everything you need there: a large terrasse, several 4K screens to watch your favourite sports, a sumptuous winter garden, and a yummy food menu!
Looking to party all night long? Visit O’Sullivans Grands Boulevards in Paris 2e. This public house is a typical Irish bar: a casual restaurant, creamy Guinness, fresh craft… and deadly parties every single night!
You’ll also find other Irish pubs in Paris 4e and Paris 18e: O’Sullivans Rebel Bar, (Châtelet) and O’Sullivans Pigalle (next to the Moulin Rouge).
And if you visit the outskirts of Paris, make sure to go to O’Sullivans Cergy : student parties are always fun and memorable!
In the South of France
On holidays near Cannes? Experience the Irish welcome at O’Sullivans Mandelieu, every day of the week, by the beach.
O’Sullivans Irish pubs and clubs are also in Montpellier! Cocktails, beers, tapas and burgers are waiting for you on the banks of the Lez River
In Grenoble
You’ll find the biggest Irish pub of Isère in Grenoble Neyrpic. This massive venue includes a 500 m2 rooftop, a game area and, of course, a long bar serving refreshing drinks.
So, what are you waiting for?
Go experience the Irish craic at O’Sullivans and impress your friends with the Irish slang words and phrases you’ve just learned!