ABSTRACT
Expressions of being in Irish rely on two verbal forms that are quite unlike other regular verbs in a number of ways. Each is used for some, but not all, of the functions of English be. The copula is never conjugated for different subjects as most verbs can be; all parts of copula sentences are expressed by separate words or phrases. Most copula particles show considerable variation in their spoken forms. Standard forms will be used for the sake of consistency in this grammar, but it is important to be aware of the variations and learn to recognize them, as they are quite frequent in colloquial usage. In addition to linking nouns, the copula may also introduce an adjective or prepositional phrase in some idiomatic usages. The copula is used primarily to link nominal subjects and predicates, as well as in a few uses with adjectives and prepositions.
