If you live in Tamil Nadu but don’t speak the language, this blog can teach you some basic words and phrases to get started. After all, knowing the local language is half the experience of a new place.
Tamil 101
Here are some basic Tamil words and phrases that will make your life easier:
Hello – Vanakkam
How are you? – Epdi irukeenga? (with respect)
I’m fine – Naan nalla irukken !
Me/I – Enaku / naan
You – Neenga (with respect)
Yes – Seri
No – Illa
Come – Vaanga (with respect)
Go – Ponga (with respect)
Here – Inga
There – Anga
Far – Dhooram
Near – Pakkam/kitta
Today – Inniki
Tomorrow – Naaliki
Yesterday – Nethu
Thank you – Nandri
Home – Veedu
This – Idhu
That – Adhu
What? – Enna?
When? – Eppo?
Where? – Enga?
How? – Epdi?
Why? – Yen / Edhukku?
How much? – Yevlo?
What is the time? – Time enna? / Mani enna?
I don’t understand Tamil – Enakku Tamil theriyadhu/ Enakku Tamil puriyadhu
Tamil Phrases for Commuters
Where does this train/bus go? – Indha train/bus enga poguthu?
What time does this train/bus leave/go? – Indha train/bus ethana manikki/ eppo kelambum?
Does this bus/metro stop at
Where is the ticket counter? – Ticket counter enga irukku?
Where is platform no. / bus no. <>? – Platform/bus no. <> enga irukku?
Once you’ve mastered these words and phrases, you should start watching Tamil films and videos to improve your skills further. These will give you a good headstart to being a pro. Just keep practicing, and focus on conversing—leave your commute to us. Start Tummocing now to join the #SmartCommute revolution ???????? https://bit.ly/3l3z9U1