Tamil — the most important phrases
Tamil is spoken by about 25% of the population — mainly in the north (Jaffna), east (Trincomalee, Batticaloa), and on the tea plantations in the highlands. A few words in Tamil are especially appreciated in these regions.
Greeting & Politeness
| German | Tamil | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | வணக்கம் | Vanakkam |
| Thank you | நன்றி | Nandri |
| Please | தயவுசெய்து | Thayawu seidhu |
| Yes | ஆமா | Aamaa |
| No | இல்லை | Illai |
| Sorry | மன்னிக்கவும் | Mannikkawum |
| Goodbye | போய் வருகிறேன் | Poi warugiren |
Practical
| German | Tamil | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| How much does this cost? | இது எவ்வளவு? | Idhu evvalawu? |
| Too expensive! | ரொம்ப விலை! | Romba wilai! |
| Water | தண்ணீர் | Thannir |
| Food | சாப்பாடு | Saappaadu |
| Delicious! | சுவையா! | Suwaiyaa! |
| Help! | உதவி! | Udhawi! |
💡 Tipp
Knowing a few words of Tamil in Jaffna and the east coast makes a huge difference. The Tamil population often feels culturally like a minority — when a foreign tourist speaks their language, the joy is particularly great.
