Tamil, one of the oldest languages in the world, is spoken by millions of people, primarily in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. If you’re looking to learn how to say “like” in Tamil, this guide will provide you with various ways to express this common English word. Additionally, we’ll cover both formal and informal usages, ensuring you can navigate any conversation with ease.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Like” in Tamil
When speaking formally or addressing someone with respect, you can use the term “போன்ற” (pōṉṟa). This word can be translated as “like” or “similar to” in English. It is commonly used in formal contexts. Here are a few examples:
அவருக்கு நீலம் போன்ற நிறம் பிடித்தது. (Avarukku nīlam pōṉṟa niṟam piṭithu.)
He liked the color blue.
In formal scenarios, you can also employ the word “போன்றால்” (pōṉṟāl), which means “by liking” or “due to liking.” This term adds an element of causality to your sentence. Here’s an example:
அவள் கலக்கும் கண்களுடன் அவர் அம்மாவுக்கு அன்பு போன்றால், அவர் அவளுக்கு எப்போதும் ஆதரவானார். (Avaḷ kalakkum kaṇkaḷuṭaṉ avar ammāvukku aṉpu pōṉṟāl, avar avaḷukku eppōdhum ātharavāṉār.)
Due to the love she has for her grandmother, he always supports her.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Like” in Tamil
When communicating casually or with friends, you can utilize the term “பிடிக்கும்” (piṭikkuṁ). This word translates to “to like” and is commonly used in conversational Tamil. Take a look at the following examples:
நீங்கள் பழகுவதை பிடிக்கும் போது நீங்கள் நன்றாக அமையும். (Nīṅkaḷ paḻakuvathai piṭikkuṁ pōtu nīṅkaḷ naṉṟāka amaiyum.)
When you like what you do, you will excel.
An alternative informal way to express “like” is by using the term “ரொம்ப” (romba), which can be translated as “really” or “very much.” While it doesn’t directly equate to “like,” it is frequently used as an intensifier in informal conversations. Here’s an example:
அவள் அவர்களை ரொம்ப மிகுந்தது போல் கண்டிப்பாள். (Avaḷ avarkaḷai romba mikunthatu pōl kaṇṭippāḷ.)
She liked them very much when she met them.
3. Regional Variations
While the previous examples cover common and widely understood Tamil words for “like,” it’s worth noting that regional variations exist. Different regions may have their unique ways of expressing this concept. Therefore, it’s beneficial to pick up on local dialects and embrace the regional vocabulary if you’re immersed in a specific area.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “like” in Tamil allows you to effectively express your preferences and opinions. Whether you’re engaging in a formal conversation or speaking casually, the phrases “போன்ற” (pōṉṟa), “போன்றால்” (pōṉṟāl), “பிடிக்கும்” (piṭikkuṁ), and “ரொம்ப” (romba) will help you navigate various social contexts. Remember to pay attention to regional variations as well, as they add depth and uniqueness to the language.
