Highlander

[Hugh MacLeod]

I am looking for the gaelic translation of the phrase "Can be only one" from the movie The Highlander.

[Crofter]

A literal word for word translation from English to Gaelic is not always possible.

The phrase “Can be only one” makes no sense as it stands, out of context. Could you show what context it was used in?

Translating it as it stands would make no sense either.

[Auld Chiel]

Originally Posted by Crofter

A literal word for word translation from English to Gaelic is not always possible.

The phrase “Can be only one” makes no sense as it stands, out of context. Could you show what context it was used in?

Translating it as it stands would make no sense either.

I think he means the phrase "There can be only one" as in a fight to the finish with only one man left standing. Highlander was a horrible movie, though it did contain some beautiful footage shot on location in Scotland. The acting was decidely B grade though.

As for the Gaelic version: Só pode haber unha

[Crofter]

Out of common courtesy to Mr Macleod perhaps he should be permitted to say what he means or wants, not what you think he means, Auld Chiel.

Opinions of the movie were not called for. There are several threads where you can impress the world with your expertise on movies, where you may find those who disagree. Try under the heading Literature and Film, for example.

This is a language thread.

As for your attempt at Gaelic, who are you trying to impress? Whatever language it is, it is not Scottish Gaelic.

I would suggest sticking to what you know for a fact, but then, there would be no postings at all from you.

[Celyn]

To be fair, I think Auld Chiel has actually clarified the context of the sentence as used in the film mentioned in the O.P. Likewise, I see no harm in adding a small remark about the film. A long-winded film review would, on the other hand, indeed have been out of place.

However, the attempted "translation" is, of course, nonsensical. Methinks somebody has been confusing Gaelic with Galician. Or Portuguese? Klingon? Anything but Gaelic anyway. I suspect the involvement of a brain-damaged Babelfish. It is neither clever nor helpful to pretend to know something and give completely wrong answers.

Hugh Macleod, welcome to the message board, and you've just had a great example of reasons to be careful when seeking information on the Internet. If Crofter pops in again, I suggest you do trust her/his translation, as s/he does know Gaelic.

As for me, I feel a sudden need to go and watch the Python "Hungarian Phrasebook" sketch.