Which is easier - Scottish Gaelic or Irish?

It is difficult to objectively say which language is easier to learn. Both Scottish Gaelic and Irish are classified as "difficult" languages by the U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI), which means they require approximately 2,200 hours of classroom instruction to achieve fluency. However, there are certain factors that can make one language appear easier or more difficult for an individual learner, such as their prior language experience, personal learning style, and exposure to the target language.

Here are some points to consider when comparing the relative difficulty of Scottish Gaelic and Irish:

Similarities:

- Both Scottish Gaelic and Irish are Gaelic languages and share many grammatical features and vocabulary.

- They have similar pronunciation systems, although there are some differences in accent and dialect.

Differences:

- Scottish Gaelic is spoken in Scotland, while Irish is spoken in Ireland.

- Scottish Gaelic has a smaller number of speakers compared to Irish.

- Irish is more commonly used in media and education, making it easier to find resources for learning.

- Irish has undergone more language standardization, while Scottish Gaelic has more regional variations.

Dialectal Variation:

Scottish Gaelic has several dialects, each with its own unique characteristics. Some dialects are more closely related to Irish than others. In contrast, Irish has fewer dialects and a more standardized form of the language.

Learning Resources:

There are more learning resources available for Irish compared to Scottish Gaelic. This includes textbooks, online courses, apps, and language exchange opportunities.

Ultimately, the "easiest" language to learn is subjective and will vary from person to person. It depends on individual factors, learning preferences, and exposure to the target language. If you are interested in learning either Scottish Gaelic or Irish, it's recommended to explore resources, engage with native speakers, and immerse yourself in the language and culture to find what works best for you.