Meaning of Poor in Tamil:
Spoken vs Formal
Formal / Written
ஏழை
"Ezhai"
For textbooks, news, and formal speeches.
REAL LIFE
Spoken / Chatஏழை / பாவம்
"Ezhai / Paavam"
Use this with friends, family, and on WhatsApp.
When to use which?
'Paavam' is often used to say 'poor soul' or 'pity'.
Example Usage
English
"He is poor."
Formal
அவர் ஏழை (Avar ezhai).
Spoken (Better)
அவன் பாவம் ஏழை (Avan paavam ezhai).