చేటు మూడినపుడు మాటలు తోచవు

chetu mudinapudu matalu tochavu

Translation

When misfortune is about to strike, words (or wisdom) fail to occur.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a situation where a person loses their common sense, judgment, or the ability to speak/act wisely when they are on the verge of ruin or a major problem. It suggests that one's intellect is clouded when bad luck or destruction is imminent.

Related Phrases

Spicy chili paste for a scraped-out morsel of food.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person is extremely meticulous or demanding even when dealing with something very small, insignificant, or leftover. It highlights the tendency to fuss over trivial matters or to be overly particular about something that doesn't warrant such attention.

Listening to hearsay leads to ruin.

This expression warns against acting upon rumors or gossip without verification. It suggests that paying heed to malicious talk or the instigations of others will ultimately lead to one's own downfall or harm.

Does depth matter to someone who knows how to swim?

This proverb is used to convey that when someone possesses the necessary skills or expertise to handle a task, the difficulty or scale of the challenge does not intimidate them. Expertise eliminates fear and makes complex problems seem manageable.

For feasting or for medicine, three times. A man will not be treated as a guest for more than three meals and he is not expected to stay longer.—The effect of medicine should be tried by three doses after which, if it fail, it should be given up.

This proverb suggests that both hospitality (visiting/hosting) and medicinal treatments have a limit to their effectiveness and welcome. Just as one should not overstay their welcome as a guest, one should not overindulge or rely on medicine for too long. It is used to emphasize that some things are only good in moderation and for a short duration.

Listening to hearsay leads to ruin, while honest words can be sharp.

This expression warns that acting on gossip or others' manipulative words causes harm. Conversely, sincere or truthful advice may feel blunt or 'sharp' like a spice, but it is ultimately beneficial. It is used to advise someone to be wary of rumors and appreciate honest criticism.

Actions that don't fail are better than words that are merely spoken.

This expression emphasizes that keeping one's word or performing a duty reliably is far superior to making grand promises or giving empty advice. It highlights the importance of integrity and action over mere eloquence.

In speech there is elegance, in speech there is power (a blow), and in speech there is directness.

This expression highlights the multifaceted power of words. It suggests that human speech can be used to convey sophistication (neetu), to deliver a sharp or stinging impact (potu), or to be honest and straightforward (sooti). It is often used to remind people that how we talk can charm, hurt, or clarify depending on the intent.

Lies are better than backbiting.

This expression is used to suggest that it is better to hear something blunt or even incorrect rather than being given false promises or misleading information that is never fulfilled. It emphasizes the frustration of broken commitments.

Listening to gossip leads to ruin.

This proverb warns that paying attention to hearsay, rumors, or others' manipulative talk without verifying the facts will eventually lead to harm or disaster. It is used to advise someone to be wary of people who try to influence them with gossip.

Talking in the day time spoils one's business ; talking in the night time spoils one's sleep.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of time management and focus. It suggests that gossiping or talking excessively during the day hinders productivity, while doing the same at night disturbs necessary rest. It is used to advise someone to stop talking and get back to their responsibilities or to sleep.