Learning a new language can be a rewarding and enriching experience. If you’re delving into Welsh, you’ll quickly discover that it is a language full of nuance and beauty. Today, we will explore the differences between two fundamental actions: walking and running. In Welsh, these actions are expressed by the words cerdded and rhedeg, respectively. By understanding these terms and their usage, you will gain a deeper appreciation of the Welsh language and improve your conversational skills.

Cerdded

Cerdded – Walking
The Welsh verb cerdded translates to “walking” in English. It is used to describe the act of moving on foot at a moderate pace.

Rwy’n hoffi cerdded ar hyd yr arfordir.
I like walking along the coast.

Taith gerdded – Walk/Hike
A taith gerdded is a walk or a hike, often used to describe a journey on foot that is more leisurely or scenic in nature.

Aethon ni am daith gerdded yn y mynyddoedd y penwythnos diwethaf.
We went for a hike in the mountains last weekend.

Cerddwr – Walker
A cerddwr is a person who walks. This term can be used to describe someone who enjoys walking as a hobby or simply someone who is walking at the moment.

Mae llawer o gerddwyr yn mwynhau’r llwybrau yn yr ardal hon.
Many walkers enjoy the trails in this area.

Cerdded yn araf – Walk slowly
The phrase cerdded yn araf means to walk slowly. It can be used when giving directions or describing someone’s pace.

Roeddem ni’n cerdded yn araf i fwynhau’r golygfeydd.
We were walking slowly to enjoy the views.

Phrases and Idioms with Cerdded

Cerdded ar y dŵr – Walk on water
This phrase is used metaphorically to describe someone doing something extraordinary or seemingly impossible.

Mae’n ymddangos fel petai hi’n gallu cerdded ar y dŵr gyda’i thalent.
It seems like she can walk on water with her talent.

Cerdded yn ei esgidiau – Walk in his/her shoes
This idiom means to understand someone’s situation or perspective by imagining oneself in their position.

Mae’n bwysig ceisio cerdded yn ei esgidiau cyn beirniadu.
It’s important to try to walk in his shoes before judging.

Rhedeg

Rhedeg – Running
The Welsh verb rhedeg translates to “running” in English. It is used to describe the act of moving swiftly on foot.

Mae hi’n rhedeg bob bore cyn gwaith.
She runs every morning before work.

Rhedwr – Runner
A rhedwr is a person who runs. This term can be used to describe someone who runs as a sport or someone who is running at the moment.

Mae llawer o rhedwyr yn cymryd rhan yn y ras eleni.
Many runners are participating in the race this year.

Ras – Race
A ras is a running competition. This term can refer to any kind of race, from a short sprint to a marathon.

Bydd y ras yn cychwyn am naw o’r gloch y bore.
The race will start at nine o’clock in the morning.

Rhedeg yn gyflym – Run quickly
The phrase rhedeg yn gyflym means to run quickly. It can be used to describe someone’s speed or to give encouragement.

Rhaid i ti rhedeg yn gyflym i gyrraedd y bws ar amser.
You have to run quickly to catch the bus on time.

Phrases and Idioms with Rhedeg

Rhedeg allan o amser – Run out of time
This phrase is used to describe a situation where time is running short, and there is a sense of urgency.

Rydym yn rhedeg allan o amser i gwblhau’r prosiect.
We are running out of time to complete the project.

Rhedeg fel y gwynt – Run like the wind
This idiom means to run very fast, often used to describe someone’s impressive speed.

Mae hi’n gallu rhedeg fel y gwynt pan mae’n chwarae pêl-droed.
She can run like the wind when she plays football.

Comparing Cerdded and Rhedeg

While both cerdded and rhedeg involve moving on foot, they convey different levels of intensity and speed. Understanding the context in which each verb is used will enhance your comprehension and ability to communicate effectively in Welsh.

Cerdded – Walking
Walking is typically a slower, more leisurely activity. It can be a form of exercise, a means of transportation, or a way to explore and enjoy one’s surroundings.

Rhedeg – Running
Running, on the other hand, is a faster and more vigorous activity. It is often associated with sports, fitness, and a sense of urgency or excitement.

Usage in Daily Life

In daily conversation, you might use cerdded to describe your commute to work, a stroll in the park, or a leisurely hike. For example:

Dw i’n cerdded i’r gwaith bob bore.
I walk to work every morning.

Aethon ni am daith gerdded hir ar y penwythnos.
We went for a long walk on the weekend.

Conversely, you might use rhedeg when talking about your exercise routine, participating in a race, or needing to move quickly. For example:

Rwy’n rhedeg pum cilomedr bob dydd.
I run five kilometers every day.

Mae’n rhaid i mi rhedeg i ddal y trên.
I have to run to catch the train.

Physical and Mental Benefits

Both walking and running offer numerous physical and mental health benefits, and discussing these activities in Welsh can help you expand your vocabulary and improve your fluency.

Cerdded
Walking is a low-impact exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and enhance mental well-being. It is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

Mae cerdded bob dydd yn gallu helpu i leihau straen ac yn cynyddu lefelau egni.
Walking every day can help reduce stress and increase energy levels.

Rhedeg
Running is a high-impact exercise that can boost cardiovascular fitness, aid in weight management, and improve mental health. It often requires more physical effort and endurance.

Mae rhedeg yn rheolaidd yn gallu gwella iechyd y galon a chynyddu stamina.
Regular running can improve heart health and increase stamina.

Practical Tips for Learners

To further enhance your understanding and usage of cerdded and rhedeg in Welsh, here are some practical tips:

Practice with a Partner
Find a language partner or join a language group where you can practice using these verbs in conversation. Discuss your daily routines, exercise habits, and favorite outdoor activities.

Beth wyt ti’n hoffi wneud yn ystod dy amser hamdden? Dw i’n hoffi cerdded neu rhedeg yn y parc.
What do you like to do in your leisure time? I like walking or running in the park.

Use Visual Aids
Create flashcards with images of people walking and running, along with the corresponding Welsh verbs and phrases. This visual association can help reinforce your memory and recall.

Mae’r ddelwedd hon yn dangos rhywun yn cerdded ar hyd yr arfordir.
This image shows someone walking along the coast.

Incorporate into Daily Routine
Try to incorporate the verbs cerdded and rhedeg into your daily routine by narrating your actions in Welsh. For example, when you go for a walk or run, describe what you are doing in Welsh.

Dw i’n mynd allan i rhedeg nawr.
I am going out to run now.

Engage with Welsh Media
Watch Welsh-language videos, listen to Welsh podcasts, and read articles that discuss fitness, health, and outdoor activities. Pay attention to how cerdded and rhedeg are used in different contexts.

Roedd y rhaglen deledu yn trafod buddion cerdded a rhedeg i iechyd.
The television program discussed the health benefits of walking and running.

In conclusion, understanding the differences between cerdded and rhedeg in Welsh will not only enhance your vocabulary but also improve your ability to communicate effectively in various contexts. Both walking and running are integral parts of daily life, and being able to discuss these activities in Welsh will bring you one step closer to fluency. So, whether you prefer a leisurely walk or an invigorating run, embrace the language and enjoy your journey of learning Welsh.