200 Essential Tamil Words – Part 13: Keelu (Listen / Hear)
Hello! I’m Meenakshi!
In this post from the “200 Essential Tamil Words” series, we’ll introduce a very useful Tamil verb:
“Keelu” (கேள்) – meaning “listen” or “hear.”
What is “Keelu”?
The Tamil verb “keelu” is used in many everyday situations. It can mean both “listen” (actively paying attention) and “hear” (passively perceiving sound).
You can use it to talk about listening to music, hearing someone speak, or even just noticing a sound.
It is also used in contexts where the sound comes to your ear naturally, without intent.
“Keelu” is a flexible and frequently used verb in spoken Tamil.
Present Tense Examples
✅ “I listen to music.”
👉 Naan isai keetkireen (நான் இசை கேட்கிறேன்)
✅ “You listen to music.”
👉 Neenga isai keetkireenga (நீங்கள் இசை கேட்கிறீர்கள்)
✅ “He/She listens to music.”
👉 Avanga isai keetkiraanga (அவர்கள் இசை கேட்கிறார்கள்)
✅ “We listen to music.”
👉 Namma isai keetkiroom (நாம் இசை கேட்கிறோம்)
Past Tense Examples
✅ “I listened to music.”
👉 Naan isai keetteen (நான் இசை கேட்டேன்)
✅ “You listened to music.”
👉 Neenga isai keetteenga (நீங்கள் இசை கேட்டீர்கள்)
✅ “He/She listened to music.”
👉 Avanga isai keettaanga (அவர்கள் இசை கேட்டார்கள்)
✅ “We listened to music.”
👉 Namma isai keettoom (நாம் இசை கேட்டோம்)
Summary
“Keelu” is a practical and essential Tamil verb.
It means both “listen” and “hear,” and is used for conversations, music, or naturally heard sounds.
You’ll find this verb in many everyday situations—be sure to remember it!
We’ll continue introducing more essential Tamil words in future posts, so stay tuned!
