This page is for learners of Tamil who are interested in picking up essential Tamil phrases for everyday conversation, especially when traveling across Tamil Nadu or interacting with Tamil speakers.
We cover common greetings, travel-related expressions, numbers, time, months, and more – all of which are useful for basic communication in Tamil.
If you want to translate more words or sentences, try our free English to Tamil Translation tool for instant results.
There are different ways to greet people and wishing them the best wishes in Tamil. Leave a good impression by learning some of the most basic form of greetings and pleasantries which you can use when meeting anyone.
These basic Tamil phrases will help travellers get around in Tamil Nadu, ask for directions, communicate in shops, and navigate their stay.
In Tamil, pronouns differ based on respect, number, and familiarity. Learn the essential personal pronouns for everyday conversation.
Learn basic words and phrases related to clock in Tamil.
Learn Tamil words for days of the week and parts of the day to manage your time and plans easily.
Some part of India still use its own "Hindu Calendar" which follows the Bikram Sambat System. Below are the phrases used to say months in Tamil.
Tamil uses Indian numbering like lakh (லட்சம்) and crore. Learn to count from 1 to 1 million and understand the system.
Vanakkam (வணக்கம்) is a traditional Tamil greeting meaning "Hello" or "Welcome".
It is derived from the root word "Vanangu" which means "to bow or show respect".
Vanakkam is used in both formal and informal situations to greet others respectfully.
Eppadi Irukkinga (எப்படி இருக்கிறீர்கள்?) means "How are you?" in formal Tamil.
It is used when speaking to elders, teachers, or people you don’t know well.
The informal version is "Eppadi Irukka?" (எப்படி இருக்க?)
Kaalai Vanakkam (காலை வணக்கம்) translates to "Good Morning".
It is used to greet people during the morning hours.
This phrase is part of respectful social etiquette in Tamil culture.
Nandri (நன்றி) means "Thank you".
It is the standard way to express gratitude in Tamil.
You can say "Romba nandri" (ரொம்ப நன்றி) for "Thank you very much".
En peyar (என் பெயர்) means "My name is".
To introduce yourself, say "En peyar [your name]".
Example: என் பெயர் ராஜ் (En peyar Raj).
Poyittu Varen (போயிட்டு வரேன்) means "I will go and come back".
It is a polite way of saying goodbye when leaving home or a place temporarily.
It implies an intent to return.
Saptiya? (சாப்பிட்டாயா?) means "Have you eaten?"
It’s a common and caring way to greet someone in Tamil households.
Food and hospitality are deeply rooted in Tamil culture.
Enna Vishesham (என்ன விசேஷம்?) means "What’s the news?" or "What’s new?"
It is often used as a conversational starter among friends and relatives.
A friendly and informal expression used to catch up.