బొంత కుట్టుకున్నవాడు కప్పుకోలేడా?

This expression is used to describe a foolish or self-destructive person who sells their source of livelihood (fertilizer for farming) and then destroys their only means of comfort or warmth (the quilt) for fuel. It refers to someone who makes decisions that lead to their own total ruin by wasting both their assets and their necessities.

This proverb describes someone who behaves perversely or does the exact opposite of what is requested. It is used when a person responds to a simple request with an annoying or inappropriate action, or when someone misunderstands a situation so badly that they become a nuisance.

This expression emphasizes that the person who pays for something or takes the risk of purchasing it is the one who truly enjoys the benefits or consequences of it. In a broader sense, it suggests that ownership or direct investment leads to the right of consumption or usage.

This proverb suggests that the person who actually enjoys or consumes a resource is in a better position than the one who merely spent money to acquire it but didn't get to use it. It is often used to highlight that true value lies in experience and consumption rather than just possession or investment.

This expression highlights a person's limited or superficial skill set. It describes someone who knows how to do basic, rudimentary tasks (like patching a hole) but lacks the expertise or finesse required for delicate, decorative, or highly specialized work. It is used to point out that knowing the basics of a craft does not make one a master of its intricate details.

This proverb implies that someone who is capable of performing a difficult or laborious task is certainly capable of enjoying or managing the final result. It is often used to suggest that if a person can handle the hard work of creation or preparation, they surely possess the simple right or ability to utilize what they have made.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one must inevitably face the consequences of their actions, specifically referring to the physical or financial strain caused by indulging in something beyond one's means or capacity. Just as flattened rice (atukulu) swells in the stomach and causes discomfort, certain actions will eventually demand a 'price' or cause a reaction.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the person who is affected by a problem or has a personal need is the one who must take the initiative to address it. It implies that others will not bother to help or act unless they are the ones feeling the discomfort or desire.

Let him that itches scratch himself. (French.)*

This proverb highlights the conflicting interests in financial transactions. A lender wants the borrower to prosper so they can recover their money with interest, whereas a borrower might maliciously hope for the lender's downfall to avoid repayment. It is used to caution people about the psychological dynamics of debt.

* Dinheiro emprestaste, inimigo ganhaste.

This proverb reflects traditional social views on legitimacy and formal bonds. It suggests that informal relationships or foster care do not equate to the legal and social status of a marriage or biological lineage. It is often used to emphasize that titles or roles earned through convenience or temporary arrangements lack the permanence and sanctity of formal, recognized institutions.