బొంగు లొట్టయినా, కణుపు గట్టి

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone narrowly escapes a major disaster or death, but still suffers a significant loss or minor injury in the process. It is similar to the English phrase 'a narrow escape' or 'escaping by the skin of one's teeth' with a focus on the collateral damage sustained.

This expression emphasizes pragmatism and results over appearance or origin. It suggests that the value of someone or something should be judged by their ability to perform their intended task or achieve a goal, rather than their outward characteristics or status.

This expression is used to describe a person who appears strong, stubborn, or confident on the outside (the 'head') but lacks true substance, knowledge, or wealth on the inside (the 'stomach'). It can also refer to someone who is arrogant despite having no actual resources or merit.

This proverb describes a situation where someone goes out of their way to call or approach another person, not to help or offer something positive, but merely to point out a flaw or insult them. It is used to describe mean-spirited behavior or unsolicited criticism delivered under the guise of personal attention.

This proverb is used to describe a person who lacks basic necessities or cannot afford essential items, yet wastes money or focuses excessively on luxuries, vanity, or superficial appearances. It highlights poor priorities or pretentiousness.

This proverb suggests that physical stature does not necessarily determine strength or capability. It implies that short people are often sturdy and resilient (tough), while tall people might be clumsy or lacking in stamina (hollow). It is used to caution against judging someone's ability based solely on their height.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone narrowly escapes a major disaster but still suffers a significant, though less fatal, loss or injury. It is similar to the English expression 'to have a narrow escape' or 'out of the frying pan into the fire', but specifically emphasizes surviving a catastrophe with some remaining damage.

This proverb highlights that productivity and willingness to work depend on favorable conditions. It suggests that when the environment is convenient, the resources are nutritious, the supervision is empathetic, the tools are efficient, and there is financial security, even an exhausted worker (symbolized by the ox) finds the motivation to do extra work.

This expression highlights individual needs and self-interest. It means that despite the closest of bonds or biological connections, every person must satisfy their own hunger and look after their own basic physical requirements. In a broader sense, it is used to say that when it comes to personal survival or individual benefits, everyone stands alone.

This expression emphasizes the importance of stability and having a secure home base. It is often used to suggest that if one cannot succeed or find peace elsewhere, it is best to return to one's roots or parental home where there is unconditional support and safety.