బొట్టు కట్టితేగాని ముండమొయ్యదు

This proverb is often used to describe items or situations that require specific conditions to become functional. In a literal sense, it refers to a rough wool blanket (gongali) which is stiff when dry but becomes flexible and usable only when damp. Figuratively, it describes people who only work or cooperate under specific pressure or when their basic needs are met.

This expression is used to describe a classic 'chicken and egg' dilemma. It refers to a situation or debate where it is impossible to determine which of two related things happened first or is the primary cause of the other.

A problem that cannot be solved. Ask which was born first, the hen or the egg. (Italian.)*

In traditional society, widowhood was considered the ultimate hardship. This proverb emphasizes that losing one's reputation or facing a false accusation is even more painful and harder to endure than the greatest personal tragedies. It highlights the supreme importance of personal honor and character over physical or social suffering.

This expression is used to describe a situation where mutual interests, particularly regarding power or conflict, lead to an alliance. It suggests that once people recognize each other's strength or engage in a common struggle, they are more likely to form a cooperative bond or partnership.

This expression is used to describe a classic chicken-and-egg dilemma or a circular argument where it is impossible to determine which of two related things happened or existed first. It is often applied to situations involving infinite regress or complex causal loops.

This expression is used to signify that certain consequences or outcomes cannot occur unless a specific preliminary action or event takes place first. It emphasizes the logical order of events, often used in a cynical or blunt manner to point out that a process must be initiated before its end result (even a negative one) can be realized.

This is a powerful traditional saying emphasizing that a person's reputation and honor are more important than any physical or social hardship. While widowhood (historically considered a great misfortune) is endurable, the burden of a false accusation or a stain on one's character is considered unbearable and worse than death or extreme misery.

This proverb emphasizes that practical experience is essential to truly understand or judge something. Just as you cannot judge a dish without tasting it or know the depth of a pond without stepping into it, you cannot understand the complexities or difficulties of a situation or task until you are personally involved in it.

This proverb emphasizes that loss of reputation or a stain on one's character is far more painful and difficult to endure than even the most tragic personal misfortune or social hardship. It highlights the supreme importance of personal honor over physical or social suffering.

This proverb is used to describe an obvious or glaring truth that cannot be concealed no matter how much one tries to hide it among others. Historically, it refers to how a widow (who traditionally had a shaven head or specific appearance) would stand out even in a large gathering of women with long braided hair. It signifies that a distinct defect or a unique identity will eventually be exposed.