ఔనన్నా కాదన్నా అత్తకే అధికారం కాని కోడలికేముంది

This proverb suggests that in life, it is better to be at one extreme or the other rather than being stuck in the middle. It emphasizes that both a person with nothing to lose and a person with immense resources have a certain type of freedom or power, whereas those in the middle often face the most struggles and anxieties.

This proverb describes a situation where one person has absolute authority over another's life or decisions. It is used to highlight a total lack of autonomy for a subordinate, or when someone is being excessively bossy and controlling even the most fundamental aspects of another's existence.

This expression is used to mock someone who constantly contradicts themselves or claims absolute authority over both sides of an argument. It highlights the absurdity of one person or entity claiming the right to validate and invalidate the same thing whenever it suits them.

This is a sarcastic or cynical proverb used to suggest that a known relative (even one who might be difficult or considered unlucky like a widow in old social contexts) is more reliable or helpful in times of need than a stranger who is merely 'noble' or 'virtuous' in name. It emphasizes that family ties, however flawed, often provide more practical support than the abstract goodness of outsiders.

A bad bush is better than the open field. Better a lean jade than an empty halter.

This expression means that a hungry or predatory person does not distinguish between their own people or strangers when they want to satisfy their greed or aggression. It is used to describe a person who is ruthless and lacks loyalty or empathy, treating everyone as a target regardless of their relationship.

This proverb highlights the importance of social status and economic convenience. It suggests that to live comfortably and successfully in a community, one should either possess political/social power (authority) or own fertile land close to the village (utility/wealth) to ensure easy management and prosperity.

This proverb emphasizes that one should aim for extremes rather than being stuck in the middle. It suggests that a person should either be completely detached from worldly possessions (like a master ascetic/beggar) or be immensely wealthy (a millionaire), as both positions command a certain type of freedom or influence, whereas being in the middle often brings struggle and dissatisfaction.

This expression emphasizes that one should aim for extremes or total mastery in their chosen path rather than being mediocre. It suggests that there is no point in being 'in-between' or average; one should either reach the pinnacle of wealth or, if choosing a humble path, be the most detached or humble version of it. It is often used to encourage commitment to a goal.

This expression highlights the significance of primary relationships in a person's life. It suggests that if one loses the love and support of both their mother (representing one's origin) and their spouse (representing one's life partner/future), their existence becomes meaningless or devoid of purpose.

This proverb is used to describe a biased attitude where parents overlook their own son's faults or give him excessive credit while being overly critical, dismissive, or demanding toward the daughter-in-law. It highlights the unequal treatment and double standards often found in family dynamics.