అయితే ఆడబిడ్డ, కాకుంటే మొగబిడ్డ అన్నాడట

ayite adabidda, kakunte mogabidda annadata

Translation

He said 'If it happens, it's a girl; if not, it's a boy'

Meaning

This proverb is used to mock someone who makes an obvious or inevitable prediction that covers all possible outcomes. It describes a situation where a person states the obvious as if it were a profound insight, or takes a stance where they cannot be proven wrong because they have accounted for every alternative.

Related Phrases

When the new daughter-in-law was liked, the sister-in-law was startled.

This proverb describes jealousy and insecurity within family dynamics. It refers to a situation where a newcomer's success or acceptance makes an existing member feel threatened or envious, even when there is no logical reason for conflict.

Either a baby girl or a baby boy.

This expression is used to describe a situation where there are only two possible outcomes, both of which are acceptable or equally significant. It is often used to signify that no matter what happens among the expected options, the result is certain and fine. It can also be used to shut down unnecessary speculation about a result that will eventually reveal itself.

If the Âruga fails, we shall have Kandi. These are both sown together. The Âruga crop sometimes perishes. To have two strings to one's bow. Good riding at two anchors men have told ; For if one break, the other may hold.

This proverb is used to describe a 'hit or miss' situation or a risky venture where there are only two extreme possibilities. It signifies a state of uncertainty where one will either get a quick, small result or a delayed, substantial one, often used when someone takes a gamble without being sure of the specific outcome.

* Aut Cæsar aut nullus.

Even a ruler's daughter must be someone's wife.

This proverb highlights the traditional social reality that regardless of a woman's high birth, status, or wealth, she eventually leaves her parental home to become a wife. It is often used to signify that certain life transitions or social roles are universal and inevitable, regardless of one's background.

A sister-in-law is half a husband.

This proverb describes the significant authority, influence, and sometimes interference a husband's sister (aadabidda) has over his wife in a traditional Indian household. It implies that her power is second only to the husband.

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.

If it works out, it's Kodo millet; if not, it's Pigeon pea.

This proverb is used to describe a 'win-win' situation or a situation where there are only two possible outcomes, both of which are acceptable or manageable. It highlights a state of being prepared for either of two specific results, often implying that even if the primary goal isn't met, the alternative is still useful.

A child seen with one's eyes is greater than a child born from the womb.

This proverb emphasizes that nurturing, seeing, and taking care of a child with one's own eyes is more significant than the mere biological act of giving birth. It is often used to highlight the value of adoption, foster care, or the bond formed through upbringing over biological ties.

The vow to the Goddess is never fully finished; the debt to a sister is never fully repaid.

This proverb highlights the endless nature of certain obligations. Just as one continues to make offerings to the Goddess throughout life, one's responsibilities and gifts toward a sister (or daughter) in a traditional family setup are perpetual and can never be considered 'settled' or 'paid off' completely.

Perhaps a female child, if not, a male child ; if neither this nor that, it is all a lie. Said by an astrologer when consulted regarding a pregnant woman.

This sarcastic proverb is used to mock people who make vague or obvious predictions that cover all possible outcomes to ensure they are never proven wrong. It highlights the absurdity of stating the obvious as if it were a profound revelation or a certain prophecy.