Welsh, or Cymraeg, is a Celtic language native to Wales and spoken by around 800,000 people. While it’s rich in history and culture, modern Welsh also incorporates a wide range of technical and scientific vocabulary. This article will guide English speakers through some of the essential technical and scientific terms in Welsh, helping them expand their vocabulary and understanding of the language in these specific contexts.

The Basics of Technical Vocabulary in Welsh

Technical vocabulary often involves terms used within specific industries or professions. In Welsh, like in many languages, these terms can be either direct borrowings from English or unique Welsh creations.

Computers and Technology: As technology evolves, new vocabulary is required to keep up with new inventions and processes. For instance, the Welsh word for computer is “cyfrifiadur”, which breaks down into “cyfrif” (to count) and “dyfais” (device).

Welsh: Mae fy nghyfrifiadur yn araf heddiw.
Translation: My computer is slow today.

Engineering: This field combines science and technology to design and build machinery, buildings, and other items. The Welsh term for engineering is “peirianneg”.

Welsh: Mae hi’n astudio peirianneg yn y brifysgol.
Translation: She is studying engineering at the university.

Scientific Welsh Vocabulary

Science plays a crucial role in our understanding of the world, and Welsh science vocabulary can be quite specific. Learning these terms not only helps in understanding scientific discussion but also aids in grasping the fundamental concepts taught in schools and universities.

Biology: This is the study of living organisms. The Welsh word for biology is “bioleg”.

Welsh: Mae bioleg yn pwysig i ddeall bywyd.
Translation: Biology is important to understand life.

Chemistry: This involves the study of substances and the investigation of their properties and reactions. In Welsh, chemistry is referred to as “cemeg”.

Welish: Mae cemeg yn helpu i ddatblygu meddyginiaethau newydd.
Translation: Chemistry helps to develop new medicines.

Incorporating Technical Terms in Daily Use

Using technical and scientific terms in daily conversations can be challenging but doing so enhances proficiency and comfort with the language. Here are some ways to incorporate these terms into everyday Welsh usage.

Discussing Technology: With the rapid advancement in technology, discussing tech-related topics in Welsh can be both practical and educational.

Welsh: Sut mae diweddaru meddalwedd y cyfrifiadur?
Translation: How do you update the computer software?

Talking about Health: Health-related discussions often involve scientific terms, especially concerning medicine and human biology.

Welish: Mae’n bwysig deall sut mae’r corff dynol yn gweithio.
Translation: It’s important to understand how the human body works.

Resources for Learning Technical and Scientific Welsh

There are several resources available for those interested in expanding their technical and scientific Welsh vocabulary.

Online Dictionaries: Websites like Geiriadur Prifysgol Cymru (The University of Wales Dictionary) are excellent for finding the Welsh equivalents of technical terms.

Welsh Language Courses: Many universities and colleges offer courses that focus on specific vocabulary areas, including technical and scientific Welsh.

Apps and Software: Language learning apps like Duolingo or Memrise now offer Welsh courses that include specialized vocabulary sections.

In conclusion, learning technical and scientific Welsh vocabulary not only broadens your linguistic skills but also enhances your understanding of various professional and academic fields. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply a language enthusiast, integrating these terms into your Welsh vocabulary will provide a deeper insight into the language’s versatility and richness.