చెరకు రసము కన్నా చెలి మాట తీపురా

This traditional expression suggests that some people's loyalty or trust can be unpredictable and dangerous. It is used to caution someone about placing complete faith in individuals who might be fickle or potentially harmful, drawing a comparison to the inherent danger of befriending venomous snakes.

This proverb warns that excessive teasing, joking, or overly familiar behavior (sarasamu) often crosses a boundary and ends in a conflict, resentment, or a fight (virasamu). It is used to advise people to maintain boundaries even in friendly interactions.

This proverb suggests that certain friendships or alliances might be unreliable or illusory. Just as wealth gained in a dream disappears upon waking, this expression implies that the benefits or the relationship itself might not hold up or remain tangible in reality when most needed. It is used to caution someone about trusting a connection that lacks a solid, lasting foundation.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the main person or essential element is missing, making the current actions or arrangements redundant or meaningless. It highlights the irony of preparing something for someone who isn't there to receive it.

This expression is used to describe how sweet, comforting, and pleasant it is to talk to a true friend. Just as sugarcane juice is naturally sweet and refreshing, the conversation or advice from a dear friend brings joy and relief to the heart.

This proverb emphasizes that when hosting someone, the warmth, hospitality, and respect shown to the guest are far more important than the quality or quantity of the food served. It is used to highlight that material offerings lose their value if they are not given with a kind heart.

Welcome is the best cheer. In hospitality it is the spirit that is the chief thing. (Greek.)

This expression is used to describe speech or language that is confusing, convoluted, or lacks clarity. It refers to someone talking in circles or using 'gibberish' that makes no sense to the listener.

This expression is used to describe a friendship or association with a dangerous, unpredictable, or untrustworthy person. It implies that being close to such individuals is as hazardous as playing with a venomous snake or practicing with a sharp sword; one must always be on guard because a single mistake or a change in their mood could result in fatal consequences.

This proverb emphasizes that practical common sense and real-world experience are often more valuable than mere bookish knowledge or theoretical learning without application.

This proverb warns that befriending powerful people or rulers is as dangerous as befriending a venomous snake. Just as a snake might bite at any moment regardless of intimacy, a powerful person can turn against you or cause your downfall due to their unpredictable nature and authority.