Tamil Typing - A Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Keyboard PART 3: Handling Tamil Conjunct Letters

Understanding Conjunct Letters in Tamil

In Tamil, conjunct letters are combinations formed when consonants (called Mei Ezhuthukkal) join with vowels to create complete syllables. These combinations are the foundation of Tamil word formation and accurate pronunciation.

What Are Mei Ezhuthukkal?

Mei Ezhuthukkal represent pure consonant sounds without any attached vowel. When these consonants combine with vowel symbols, they form meaningful syllables or words.

Examples:

  • க + ி = கி (ki)

  • த + ு = து (thu)

  • ந + ோ = நோ (noo)

This blending of consonants and vowels is what gives Tamil its rich phonetic structure.

How to Type Conjunct Characters

To type conjunct letters accurately using a Tamil keyboard:

  1. Type the consonant – For example, press ‘k’ to get “க”.

  2. Add the Mei marker (Halant) – Use the corresponding key to indicate that the consonant is not followed by the inherent “a” sound.

  3. Type the vowel sign – Add the vowel marker to complete the syllable.

Example: Typing “க” + “ி” results in “கி” (ki).

Examples of Words with Mei Ezhuthukkal

  • புத்தகம் (Puththagam) – Book

  • மதுரை (Madurai) – A famous city in Tamil Nadu

  • நன்றி (Nandri) – Thank you

Why It Matters

Typing conjunct letters correctly ensures clarity, accuracy, and professionalism in Tamil writing. It preserves the intended pronunciation and meaning of words, which is essential for digital communication, publishing, and educational use.