అడిగితే చిరాకు, అడగకపోతే పరాకు

adigite chiraku, adagakapote paraku

Translation

Irritation if asked, negligence if not asked.

Meaning

This proverb describes a difficult or 'no-win' situation, often referring to people who get annoyed when reminded of their duties but completely forget or neglect them if left alone. It highlights the frustration of dealing with someone who is both irritable and irresponsible.

Related Phrases

Although the mat be torn, will there not be found in it as much as a school boy's mat?

This proverb is used to express optimism or consolation when facing a significant loss. It implies that even after a great ruin or downfall, something of value or a small portion of the original wealth/status will still remain to sustain a person.

Cadaru is a very small square mat. Every thing can be brought to some account. Nothing so bad as not to be good for something. * Quod non opus est, esse carum est.

If it works out, it is a lie; if it doesn't, it is an illicit affair.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person tries to cover up a mistake or a wrongdoing with a lie. If the lie is believed, they get away with it (it remains just a 'lie'); if the lie fails and they are caught, the act is exposed as something much more scandalous or serious. It highlights how people manipulate truths to suit their convenience until they are caught.

Tempering for the curry, rinsing for the saree.

This expression highlights the essential finishing touches or actions that bring out the best quality in something. Just as tempering (seasoning) is vital for a curry's flavor, properly rinsing and snapping a saree makes it look crisp and beautiful. It is used to signify that certain processes are indispensable for a perfect result.

If asked, it is irritation; if not asked, it is negligence.

This proverb describes a difficult person or situation where any action leads to a negative outcome. If you ask for something or check in, they get annoyed (irritation), but if you stay quiet, they complain that you are ignoring them or being careless (negligence/paraku).

Like soot touching a freshly washed cloth

This expression is used to describe how a small blemish or a single mistake can ruin something that is otherwise pure, clean, or perfect. It highlights the vulnerability of a good reputation or a pristine object to even the slightest stain.

Your style is a tiny spoon, your face is a ribbed gourd leaf; don't look at me, I am already irritated.

This is a humorous and rhyming taunt or satirical verse used to mock someone's appearance or vanity. It is typically used in a playful or argumentative way to tell someone that they aren't as attractive or impressive as they think they are, especially when the speaker is already in a bad mood.

If you tend to it, it is a paddy field; if you don't, it is a wild forest.

This expression emphasizes the importance of constant care, maintenance, and hard work. Just as a field requires regular attention to remain productive, any business, relationship, or skill will deteriorate into a wild or useless state if neglected.

A flame-of-the-forest leaf for the husband, a banana leaf for the son-in-law.

This proverb describes unfair partiality or double standards within a household. It refers to a situation where a woman treats her husband poorly (giving him a small, rough leaf to eat from) while showing excessive hospitality or preference toward her son-in-law (giving him a large, premium banana leaf). It is used to mock people who value outsiders or guests more than their own family members.

If given, it's a marriage; if not, it's shattered pieces.

This proverb describes a fickle or opportunistic person who is pleasant and supportive only as long as they receive favors or benefits. If their demands are met, everything is celebrated (like a wedding); if not, they turn hostile and create trouble (represented by the sound of crackers or destruction).

If it moves, it is a cart; if it doesn't, it is stubborn.

This proverb is used to describe a situation or a machine that is unreliable or inconsistent. It refers to something that works perfectly when it wants to but becomes completely uncooperative or stationary when it faces a hurdle. It is often applied to old vehicles, unpredictable people, or projects that lack a steady momentum.