Bad Company

This proverb suggests that things or relationships that are not suitable for you or cause discomfort should be discarded or kept at a distance. It is used to advise someone to let go of unnecessary burdens, incompatible people, or situations that do not serve their well-being.

This proverb describes people who are accustomed to bad environments or negative habits. Just as a creature born in venom becomes immune to it and knows no other life, people raised in corruption or negativity may find it difficult to adapt to a virtuous or healthy lifestyle. It is often used to imply that someone's nature or behavior is a result of their deep-rooted environment.

This traditional expression suggests that some people's loyalty or trust can be unpredictable and dangerous. It is used to caution someone about placing complete faith in individuals who might be fickle or potentially harmful, drawing a comparison to the inherent danger of befriending venomous snakes.

This proverb highlights that being overly familiar or biased toward someone/something close to you does not exempt you from the negative consequences of their harmful nature. It is used to warn that even if someone is 'our own person', their bad behavior or mistakes will still cause trouble, and one must maintain a safe distance or exercise caution regardless of the relationship.

This proverb describes a person who has a habit of exaggerating or spreading gossip, especially when they encounter new information or a new person. It is used to point out someone's tendency to over-communicate or embellish stories to get attention.

This expression refers to a situation involving highly disorganized, restless, or unmanageable people. Just as it is impossible to weigh live frogs on a scale because they keep jumping out, it describes a task of trying to manage a group where as soon as one person is settled, another causes trouble or leaves.

This proverb is used to describe how a single bad person or a small internal problem can cause immense distress to the entire group or family. Just as a tiny cavity (worm) in one tooth causes the whole mouth to ache, a troublemaker can ruin the peace of an organization.

This expression is used to highlight that bad habits or addictions inevitably leave visible or invisible marks on a person. Just as tobacco stains the nose and smoke fouls the breath, engaging in negative behaviors or keeping bad company leaves a lasting 'stain' on one's character or reputation. It emphasizes that purity and vice cannot coexist.

This proverb is used to describe two people or things that are very similar in nature, character, or appearance. Just as a brinjal and a wild eggplant belong to the same family and look alike, it implies that someone shares the same (often negative) traits as their associate or sibling.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one person is clever or troublesome, but their close associate or relative is even more cunning or difficult to deal with. It highlights a hierarchy of shrewdness or mischief within a group.

This proverb describes the alliance of two individuals who are both lacking in some way—either in character, resources, or capability. It is used to mock an association where neither party can help the other, or to point out that people with negative traits often find common ground with those who have nothing to lose.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a guest or a temporary person creates more trouble or makes more demands than a permanent resident. Horse gram takes a long time to cook (representing the patience of the permanent resident), while sesame seeds pop and finish quickly (representing the fleeting but demanding nature of a temporary visitor). It is often used to comment on people who stay for a short duration but cause significant inconvenience.

This proverb suggests that it is better to have an argument with a person of refined character and status than to be on friendly or intimate terms with someone of low character or vulgarity. It emphasizes that the company you keep (or even the nature of your conflicts) influences your reputation and well-being. Association with the noble, even in disagreement, leaves a better 'scent' than intimacy with the base.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone unknowingly or foolishly seeks protection or places their trust in the very person who intends to harm or rob them. It signifies an act of extreme negligence or lack of common sense.

This proverb is used to describe an unwanted or uninvited guest who arrives unexpectedly. It highlights the awkwardness of someone participating in an event or making a commitment (like a religious fast) without proper invitation or prior notice, often causing inconvenience to others.

This expression is used to describe a pair of people who are equally wicked, cunning, or dangerous and work together to deceive or harm others. It originates from the story of two demon brothers in Hindu mythology who collaborated to kill travelers.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person, instead of presenting a logical argument or following a fair process, relies on influence, muscle power, or family connections to settle a matter. It highlights the tendency of some people to ignore the rules of law or fairness in favor of personal backup or intimidation.

This proverb highlights the importance of being near essential resources (like water) for survival while maintaining a healthy distance from relatives to avoid unnecessary conflicts, gossip, or dependence that can arise from over-familiarity.

This expression is used to describe a situation where something excellent, noble, or divine is ruined by the presence of something unpleasant, harmful, or inferior nearby. It highlights the contrast between greatness and a nuisance.

This proverb describes a situation where despite putting in immense effort or expense (the grand wedding), the fundamental choices or timing are so fundamentally flawed or inauspicious that the outcome is destined to be a failure. It is used to mock people who focus on outward show while ignoring essential compatibility or wisdom.