అత్తవల్ల దొంగతనమున్ను, మగనివల్ల రంకున్ను నేర్చుకొన్నట్టు

This proverb describes a situation where a single action serves two purposes or benefits two people simultaneously. It specifically refers to a scenario where a task performed by a novice for practice (like a grandson learning to scratch or massage) happens to solve a problem or provide comfort to someone else (the grandmother). It is used when a win-win situation occurs, especially when one person's learning process fulfills another person's need.

This proverb describes how one bad habit or vice often leads to another. Specifically, it implies that to hide a significant misdeed, one must inevitably resort to lying. It is used to suggest that moral failings or deceptive behaviors usually go hand in hand.

This expression suggests that if one chooses to tell a lie, they must also have the cleverness and consistency to maintain it without getting caught. It is used to remark on the complexity of deception and the need for a 'logical cover' when being dishonest.

This expression is used to describe someone who tries to gain practical skills or experience through theoretical study alone, without ever entering the actual field of action. Just as one cannot learn to swim without getting into the water, certain tasks cannot be mastered without real-world practice.

This proverb emphasizes that a life built on immorality (infidelity) and dishonesty (falsehood) will never lead to a peaceful or successful conclusion. It is used to warn that character and integrity are essential for a stable life, and shortcuts through deceit or unethical behavior will eventually lead to ruin.

This proverb is used to criticize situations where people who are perceived as weak or unsuitable for leadership are given authority, suggesting that such leadership will be ineffective or lack real power. Historically, 'Tamballa' referred to a specific community of temple priests who were often seen as non-assertive, and this expression draws a parallel between their perceived nature and the leadership of women (reflecting traditional patriarchal views). It is used to mock a household or organization where the leadership is seen as weak or disorderly.

This proverb describes a situation that serves two purposes or benefits two people simultaneously. It refers to a grandmother teaching her grandson how to scratch her back; while the boy learns a task, the grandmother gets relief from her itch. It is used when an action results in a win-win outcome or when someone gets a personal benefit while performing a duty.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is so unfortunate or troublesome that they are rejected by everyone, including their own family and even fate. It signifies a state of total abandonment or being an outcast whom nobody wants to take responsibility for.

This proverb describes a person who neglects or mistreats their loyal family members and friends while seeking favors or trying to please strangers and outsiders who do not truly care for them. It is used to criticize someone's poor judgment in prioritizing relationships.

This proverb refers to a person who approaches someone for help or a favor but is too hesitant, shy, or deceitful to state their true intention. It describes a situation where someone acts with false modesty or lacks the transparency needed to achieve their goal, much like someone visiting a neighbor to ask for buttermilk while trying to hide the vessel they brought to collect it in.

Pride with poverty. Pride and poverty are ill met yet often together.