This article is about the Gaelic language of Scotland. For the Anglic language of Scotland, see
Scots language. Scottish Gaelic (Gàidhlig) is a member of the
Goidelic branch of
Celtic languages. This branch also includes the
Irish and
Manx languages. It is distinct from the
Brythonic branch of the Celtic languages, which includes
Welsh,
Cornish, and
Breton. Scottish, Manx and Irish Gaelic are all descended from
Old Irish. The language is often described as Scottish Gaelic, Scots Gaelic, or Gàidhlig to avoid confusion with the other two Goidelic languages. Outside Scotland, it is occasionally also called Scottish or Scots, a usage dating back over 1,500 years, for example
Old English Scottas. This usage is uncommon in Scotland (and parts of northern most England) because since the 16th century the word Scots has by-and-large been used to describe (Lowland)
Scots, which developed from the northern form of early
Middle English. In
Scottish English, Gaelic is pronounced ; outside Scotland, it is usually (for comprehension, see
IPA).
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