வாவ்
vāv
The English phrase "wow" is expressed in Tamil as வாவ் (vāv).
This expression is used to express sudden amazement or surprise, mirroring its use in English.
Meaning: amazement (intj)
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
வாவ் is a loanword from English and is used in informal, colloquial Tamil settings.
How do you pronounce it?
The romanization is vāv.
Did you know?
- When expressing amazement at something beautiful, Tamil speakers might use the word அற்புதம், which literally means 'miracle'.
- In Tamil culture, amazement is often expressed through body language, such as a sharp intake of breath or a slight tilt of the head, rather than just a vocal sound.
- The use of வாவ் in Tamil is a sign of 'Tanglish', a linguistic blend of Tamil and English that is a hallmark of modern Chennai pop culture.
Examples in context
- வாவ், இந்த ஓவியம் அருமையாக இருக்கிறது!vāv, inta oviyam arumaiyāka irukkiṟatu!Wow, this painting is wonderful!
- வாவ், அந்தப் பூக்கள் எவ்வளவு அழகாக இருக்கின்றன!vāv, antap pūkkal evvaḷavu aḻakāka irukkiṉṟaṉa!Wow, those flowers are so beautiful!
