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கடல் — meaning in English: Sea

kaṭal · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for Sea
கடல்
kaṭal
அற்புதம்
aṟputham
ஒருங்கிணைப்பு
oruṅkiṇaippa
குளியல்
kuḷiyal
வினைச்சொல்
viṉaiccol
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neutral common
Usage
The word கடல் (kaṭal) is frequently used in everyday conversations among Tamil speakers, especially when discussing nature, travel, or the beauty of coastal areas. For instance, one might say 'இந்த கடலில் மின்னல் தெரிகிறது' (There is lightning in the sea) during a conversation about a storm at sea, or when planning a visit to a beach.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym of கடல் is நீர் (nīr), which means 'water.' While நீர் refers to water in general, கடல் specifically denotes the vastness of the sea, often evoking feelings of depth and infinity, making it the preferred choice when discussing large bodies of saltwater.
Culture
The word கடல் (kaṭal) has deep roots in Tamil culture, often appearing in poetry and songs that celebrate the sea's beauty and mystery. Historically, the Tamil people have had a strong connection to the sea, as it has been vital for trade and sustenance, symbolizing both abundance and adventure in their folklore.
FAQ
Q.What does கடல் mean in English?
The Tamil word கடல் (kaṭal) translates to 'sea' in English, referring to large bodies of saltwater that cover much of the Earth's surface.
Q.How do you pronounce கடல்?
It is pronounced as 'kaṭal,' with a short and crisp 'a' sound, similar to 'cat' but softer, and the 'ṭ' is a retroflex sound made with the tongue curled back.
Q.Are there any common phrases using கடல்?
Yes, a common phrase is 'கடலுக்காக பாயும்' (kaṭalukāka pāyum), which means 'to dive into the sea.' This phrase is often used metaphorically to express taking a risk or embracing challenges.
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Tamil Vocabulary