Redwolf wrote:
Mhwombat wrote a really good post on this topic once...maybe she can recreate it or copy it here.
For future reference, here's the write-up:
The best translation for "soulmate" depends on what you mean by it. You might have more than one meaning in mind; in that case you may need to pick the one that's most important to you:
* If you mean someone you turn to for spiritual guidance, the best word for that is probably
anamchara (literally, "soul friend")
* If you mean a kindred spirit (possibly but not necessarily a lover), the best word for that is probably
buanchara (permanent/lifelong friend),
duine na n-árann (friend of my heart), or
anamchara (literally, "soul friend")
* If you mean a lover (perhaps your perfect match, possibly someone you were "fated" to be with), there are a few words to choose from:
fíorghrá (true love),
síorghrá (eternal love),
céadsearc (first love, but "first" here means "primary", not necessarily your first infatuation),
sonuachar (spouse, partner),
caoimh-leannán (sweet-heart), or
duine na n-árann (friend of my heart) . You might also use
anamchara (literally, "soul friend"); this usage is perhaps controversial but seems to be gaining ground.
Once you've chosen the word you'd like to use, if you want to use it in a phrase (e.g. "my soulmate"), or as if you're addressing the person, let us know so we can make the appropriate modifications.
_________________
賢いふくろぐま
Seans Eile - free software to help you practice your Irish
Scéala na Wombait - Muddle-headed Memes and Musings