Introduction to Tamil Language Pronunciation

Pronunciation of the word Tamil

• Pronounced as "Tamil"
• The letter "R" (rah) is unique and differs from English "R"
• Impressive when pronounced correctly by non-native speakers
• Transliteration used: Z H (rah)
• Examples:
  • Tamil Nadu (State of Tamil Nadu)
  • Tamaran (Tamilian)
  • Tamil Morrie (Tamil language)

Common Phrases

Vanakkam (வணக்கம்)

• Means: Hello, Welcome, Greetings
• Widely used among Tamilians
• In formal contexts, only "vanakkam" is used, not "hello"
• Use "vanakkam" to greet in place of "hello"
• Can be used for individuals or groups
• Polite form of greeting and saying hello

Inquiry of Well-being

• Informal: "Epadi Irukke" (How are you?)
  • Used with children, close relatives, informality
• Formal: "Epadi Irukeenga" (How are you?)
  • Used in formal writing, addressing children, and respected individuals
  • Also used for addressing more than one person, regardless of formality

Responses

• "Na Nalla Irukken" (I am fine - informal)
• "Nalla Irukeenga" (I am fine - formal)

Welcoming Phrases

• "Vanga Vanga" (Please come in - informal, shows enthusiasm)
• "Odkarunga" (Sit down - formal)
• "Sapidu" (Eat - singular and informal)
• "Sapudunga" (Eat - plural and formal)

Taking Leave

• "Poi Varen" (Literally: I am going and will come back)
  • Saying "I am going" alone implies leaving forever, culturally ominous
  • Can say "I am going" when the destination is already specified
• "Innum Konjam Poi Varain" (Let me take my leave now)
  • Literally: I am getting ready
  • Contextually: I am leaving
• Alternative: "Kizhithu Varen"