25
LOCAL LANGUAGE
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Tamil is the language spoken by most of the people in Tamil
Nadu, although other Indian languages are also commonly
heard in Vellore (Hindi – the national language, Kannada,
Malayalam, Telugu, and Urdu, for instance). Many South Indians,
including shopkeepers, know some English, so most visitors
who speak English, do not have too much trouble making themselves
understood. English is the medium of instruction in the
Institution. However, Tamil speakers are obviously very
pleased when one makes an attempt to use their language.
Here are some words and phrases to start you off. The Lonely
Planet Guide to India also contains a short list.
The Underlined syllable is the one to accent:
mother,
madam |
amma |
father |
appa |
sir
|
aiya |
servant
lady, maid |
ayah |
rupee |
rubah |
hello
|
vanakkam |
how
are you? |
Ningul
epidi irukiringuh |
yes |
aamma |
no |
ille |
okay,
very well |
suhri |
thanks |
nundri |
thanks
very much |
rumba
“thanks” |
good
(adj.) |
nalla |
just
a little; |
konjuhm |
water |
tanni |
I
don’t want any |
vendam |
I
want |
venum |
do
you want? |
venuma? |
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