అన్నదమ్ముల కలహం బావమరుదుల సరసం

annadammula kalaham bavamarudula sarasam

Translation

Conflict between brothers is like the joking of brothers-in-law.

Meaning

This proverb describes the nature of family arguments. It means that fights between brothers are temporary and shouldn't be taken too seriously by outsiders, as they reconcile quickly, much like the lighthearted teasing that occurs between brothers-in-law.

Related Phrases

When addressed affectionately as brother-in-law, he invited her to bed.

This proverb describes a situation where someone takes undue advantage of friendliness or intimacy. It is used when a person mistakes a polite or affectionate gesture for a weakness and responds with an inappropriate or overstepping demand. It highlights the behavior of individuals who lack boundaries and exploit a relationship's closeness.

Joking causes a breach [of friendship]. Better lose a jest than a friend. A joke never gains an enemy, but often loses a friend. Familiarity breeds contempt.

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.

A quarrel with a perfume seller is better than flirtation with a scavenger.

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.

A quarrel between a husband and wife lasts only as long as a green gram stays on a mirror.

This proverb highlights the transient nature of domestic disputes between couples. Just as a small, smooth seed like a green gram cannot find a grip and quickly slides off a slippery surface like a mirror, a disagreement between a married couple is expected to be fleeting and will resolve itself very quickly.

Is it wise to flirt with a woman in front of a eunuch?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one seeks appreciation or a response from someone who is incapable of understanding or providing it. It highlights the futility of showing off one's talents or emotions to an audience that lacks the capacity to value them.

A quarrel between husband and wife lasts only until they sit down to eat.

This proverb suggests that conflicts between a married couple are temporary and short-lived. It highlights the idea that domestic disputes are usually resolved quickly, often by the time the next meal is shared, emphasizing reconciliation over holding grudges.

Enmity among brothers, friendship among sisters

This proverb contrasts the nature of sibling relationships. It suggests that brothers often end up as rivals or enemies (usually due to property disputes or ego), whereas sisters tend to maintain a deep, lifelong bond and friendship.

A kind reception is better than a feast.

This proverb emphasizes that when hosting someone, the warmth, hospitality, and respect shown to the guest are far more important than the quality or quantity of the food served. It is used to highlight that material offerings lose their value if they are not given with a kind heart.

Welcome is the best cheer. In hospitality it is the spirit that is the chief thing. (Greek.)

Kind hospitality is better than the flavor of the food itself.

This proverb emphasizes that how one is treated (with respect and warmth) is more important than the quality of the meal being served. It is used to highlight that heartfelt hospitality and a welcoming attitude hold more value than material offerings or luxury.

Like a horned animal hitting someone wearing a coarse blanket.

This expression is used to describe a situation where one person's misfortune or mistake is exacerbated by another's aggression or when someone is unfairly targeted while already in a vulnerable or humble state. It also suggests that a simple appearance (like wearing a rough blanket) doesn't protect one from the 'horns' of life's problems or aggressive people.