tara
Low (as farewell), Very Low (as name)Informal, Casual
Definition
Meaning
A casual farewell, informal for 'goodbye'; also a given name of Irish origin.
Primarily used as an informal parting expression, similar to 'cheerio' or 'see you.' As a name, it originates from the Gaelic 'Teamhair,' referring to a place name in Ireland associated with a hill or meeting place.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
As a farewell, 'tara' is regionally restricted and strongly associated with certain British dialects. It is rarely understood outside these contexts. Its use as a name is more widespread but still relatively uncommon.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Exclusively British. The farewell 'tara' is not used in American English.
Connotations
In the UK, 'tara' is very informal, working-class, and strongly associated with northern English dialects (especially Liverpool, Manchester). It can sound friendly or, to some, a bit rough.
Frequency
In the UK, its frequency is high in specific regional dialects but negligible nationally. In the US, the farewell is non-existent; the name is used but infrequently.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
Intransitive (as farewell): 'Tara!'Transitive (rare, as name): 'I named her Tara.'Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “'Tara for now' (TFN)”
- “'Tara a bit'”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Never used.
Academic
Never used.
Everyday
Casual farewell in specific UK dialects.
Technical
Not applicable.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- 'Tara, mum!' she shouted as she ran out.
- His name is Tara. It's an Irish name.
- 'Right, I'm off. Tara!' he said, closing the door.
- The novel's main character is called Tara.
- He gave a casual wave and a 'tara' before disappearing into the crowd.
- Tara comes from the Gaelic word for a hill or meeting place.
- The dialectal use of 'tara' is a clear sociolinguistic marker of northern English origin.
- The etymology of the name Tara is linked to the historical site of the Hill of Tara in Ireland.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
"Tara" sounds like "ta-ta," another informal British goodbye. Think of a Liverpool fan shouting "Ta-ra!" to their mates after the match.
Conceptual Metaphor
DEPARTURE IS A SOCIAL RITUAL (short, informal closing of an interaction).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with Russian 'тара' (cargo, packaging). It is a false friend.
- As a name, it does not correspond to any common Russian name.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'tara' as a farewell in formal contexts.
- Using it outside the UK and expecting comprehension.
- Misspelling as 'tarra' or 'tahrah'.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary register of 'tara' when used as a farewell?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a regional word, common only in parts of the UK like Liverpool and Manchester.
No, it would not be understood as a farewell. It might only be recognized as an uncommon given name.
They are synonyms, but 'tara' is more associated with Northern England, while 'ta-ta' is slightly more widespread in the UK but still informal.
It has occasional usage in English-speaking countries but is not among the most popular names. Its popularity peaked in the late 20th century.