అభ్యాసము కూసు విద్య

This proverb highlights that no matter how many skills, educational degrees, or talents a person possesses, the ultimate goal of all their efforts is to earn a livelihood and satisfy their basic need for food. It is used to remind people that every profession or skill has the same fundamental purpose: survival.

All professions are only so many means of livelihood.

This proverb warns that excessive teasing, joking, or overly familiar behavior (sarasamu) often crosses a boundary and ends in a conflict, resentment, or a fight (virasamu). It is used to advise people to maintain boundaries even in friendly interactions.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of a mentor or guide in the learning process. It suggests that self-taught knowledge without proper guidance can be incomplete, directionless, or prone to errors, much like a person walking in the dark without sight.

This expression is used to describe a situation where something pure, auspicious, or beautiful is ruined by the addition of something foul, inferior, or inappropriate. It is often used when a great piece of work or a positive atmosphere is spoiled by a single bad element or a rude remark.

This proverb emphasizes that one's innate or inherited family profession comes naturally and is often more sustainable than learned skills. It is used to highlight the importance of preserving traditional crafts or to suggest that one's true talent lies in what has been passed down through generations.

This expression is used to describe someone who is short-tempered or gets angry very quickly and easily. It implies that their anger is always 'at the ready' right on their face.

This proverb emphasizes that constant practice leads to mastery. It suggests that any skill can be perfected through repetition and dedication, much like a person sitting down and working consistently at a craft until it becomes second nature.

This proverb describes the consequences of attempting a task without proper training or prior experience. It highlights that no matter how high one's social status or position is, without the necessary skill or practice, they will struggle and likely fail or look foolish when performing a new task.

This expression is used to describe a person's tendency to devalue or speak ill of something simply because they cannot have it or it is of no use to them. It is similar to the 'sour grapes' metaphor, where an individual criticizes or belittles an object or opportunity out of spite or envy when it is beyond their reach.

This proverb is used to describe something that seems incredibly complex, mysterious, or impossible until you learn the secret or logic behind it. Once the skill is mastered or the trick is revealed, it appears trivial or simple. It is often used to encourage learners or to humble those who act as if their simple skills are profound.

Every thing is easy when you know it. All things are difficult before they are easy. All beginnings are hard, said the thief, and began by stealing an anvil. (Dutch.)* *Alle beginnings zijn zwaar, zei de dief, en voor de eerste maal stal hij een aanbeeld.