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Irish English



The difference between "fierce" and "savage" in Hiberno-English

In Irish English, fierce can be used as an adverb in the same sentence where savage can be used as adjective.


Fierce is a synonym for "very, extremely, impressively"

Savage, as an adjective, is a synonym for "great, impressive, estimable"



A "fierce big roll" (baguette sandwich) is a "very large roll;" and is the same as "a savage roll."

"Fierce" can also be used in variations of the same usage as in standard English, as an adjective.

"Savage" bears the same definition as in standard English when used as a noun, and in that form also has an extra function as a derogatory term for country bumpkins and farmers — "muck savage."

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