A Study on The Usage of ‘Um’ Particle’s Defining Functions in Tirukkuṟal

Abstract

Tamil grammar considers particles to be an integral part of every word, regardless of their frequency. These particles play a crucial role in defining the meanings of words, depending on the nouns and verbs used. The 'um' particle, in particular, has been extensively used in Tamil literature, with Thiruvalluvar employing it in his Thirukural to define specific meanings of words. This study aims to delve deeper into the usage of the 'um' particle's defining functions in Tirukural. The study focuses on three chapters of Tirukkuṟaḷ, namely Kaṭavuḷ vāḻttu, Vāṉ ciṟappu, and Nīttār perumai, comprising a total of 30 Kuṟaṭpākkaḷ. The results indicate that the 'um' particle's defining functions have been employed in 8 Kuṟaṭpākkaḷ out of 30, with 6 Kuṟaṭpākkaḷ having Muṟṟup poruḷ , and the other 2 Kuṟaṭpākkaḷ having Ciṟappum'mai poruḷ(Uyarvu Ciṟappu). This qualitative study provides insights into the defining functions of the 'um' particle in Tirukkuṟaḷ.