అల్లుడు అర్ధబియ్యం

alludu ardhabiyyam

Translation

A son-in-law is like half a portion of rice.

Meaning

This proverb is used to describe the transitory or uncertain nature of a son-in-law's belonging to his wife's family. Since he ultimately belongs to his own house and parents, he is considered a temporary guest or an unreliable permanent asset, much like rice that is only partially sufficient or 'half-measured'.

Related Phrases

The goodness of a son-in-law is like pounding chaff; there is no rice to be found.

This proverb is used to suggest that relying on or over-praising certain people is futile. Just as pounding husks (chaff) yields no grain, expecting significant help or substance from certain individuals (traditionally used in a sarcastic context regarding a son-in-law's utility in a household) is a waste of effort. It represents a situation with no practical benefit or result.

The neorich person demands an umbrella to be held for him even at night.

A person, who acquires riches suddenly, makes unreasonable demands, as his riches go to his head and make him arrogant. One should be poised and maintain emotional balance, when fortune smiles on him.

A sister-in-law is like a half-husband.

This traditional expression refers to the significant authority, influence, and sometimes interference a husband's sister (aadabidda) can have in a newly married woman's household. It suggests that her status is nearly equal to that of the husband in terms of decision-making or power dynamics within the family.

White rice, but measured with a flawed mānika (a local unit of measurement).

This proverb describes a situation where something appears to be of high quality or value (like fine white rice), but is undermined by a fundamental flaw or deception in the process (like using a broken or unfair measuring cup). It is used to highlight instances where a benefit is neutralized by an accompanying disadvantage or hidden dishonesty.

Physical strength (manpower) is more important than financial strength.

This expression highlights that while money (arthabalam) is powerful, having physical strength, health, or a supportive group of people (angabalam) is often more valuable and effective in achieving goals or overcoming challenges. It is used to emphasize human resources over material wealth.

A donkey for music and a monkey for comedy.

This expression is used to mock someone who lacks talent or grace in their actions. It compares a person's poor singing to the braying of a donkey and their awkward attempts at humor or behavior to the antics of a monkey. It is often used to describe someone who is totally unfit for the task they are attempting.

If the teacher cannot even find an ear of corn, will the student find tender grain?

This proverb is used to highlight situations where a subordinate or student expects more than what their superior or mentor possesses. It implies that if the source or the master lacks basic resources or knowledge, it is unrealistic for the follower to expect a bounty or superior results.

Rice with fine grains, Pulihora with coarse grains.

This expression refers to using the right resources for the right purpose. Just as fine rice is preferred for plain eating while thicker/coarser rice is better suited for dishes like Pulihora (tamarind rice) to maintain texture, it implies that every person or object has a specific situation where they excel or are most appropriate.

If the teachers themselves are passing time eating corn cobs, can the disciples expect polished rice?

This proverb describes a situation where the leaders or mentors are in a poor state or lack resources; in such cases, their followers cannot expect to be better off. It is used to highlight that the quality or prosperity of subordinates depends entirely on the status and capability of their superiors.

Fine-grained rice and split pulse

This expression is used to describe a meal or a lifestyle that is of high quality, delicate, and luxurious. In a cultural context, 'Sanna Biyyam' (fine rice) and 'Saaya Pappu' (polished/split lentils) represent the pinnacle of a refined and comfortable diet, often used to signify prosperity or being pampered.