చూస్తే చుక్క, లేస్తే కుక్క

This expression highlights the irony of life where things don't align when needed. It describes a situation where you have the opportunity but lack the resources, or you have the resources but the opportunity is gone. It is often used when someone encounters bad luck or poor timing.

This expression suggests that over-analyzing or scrutinizing someone (especially an authority figure) for too long will eventually lead to finding flaws or making them look ridiculous. It is used to caution against over-observation or to describe how familiarity can breed contempt/disrespect.

This is a traditional Telugu proverb based on folk beliefs. It suggests that certain sounds or signs predict future events: the whistling or crackling of a traditional wood-burning stove is seen as a sign that guests/relatives are coming to visit, whereas the unusual howling of dogs is considered an ill omen signaling impending drought or famine.

Let us have florins and we shall find cousins. ( Italian. )†

This expression describes a situation of poor timing or irony where two things needed for a specific action are never available at the same time. It is used when resources or opportunities are missing exactly when they are most needed, but appear only when the need has passed.

This expression is used to describe a person who pretends to be lazy, weak, or incapable when asked to do work, but becomes extremely quick, active, and energetic when it comes to their own interests, food, or play.

This proverb is used to describe people who make a lot of noise, threats, or boasts but rarely take any actual action. It implies that those who are truly dangerous or effective do not need to shout about it, and those who shout are often harmless.

This is a rhythmic folk saying used to describe a woman's dual nature or temperament. It suggests that while she may appear beautiful, gentle, or charming (like a parrot or a star) on the surface, she can become extremely aggressive or fierce (like a dog) if she is provoked or loses her temper.

This proverb is used to describe a person who dislikes or finds fault with their own family or legitimate responsibilities but shows great enthusiasm and affection for outsiders or improper things. It highlights misplaced priorities and hypocrisy in one's behavior.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where people who pretend to be highly righteous or pious (represented here by Vaishnavas) are actually involved in secretive, improper, or hypocritical acts (represented by the missing liquor pot). It highlights the gap between public appearance and private reality.

This proverb is used to contrast different attitudes toward one's own community or peers. It suggests that while some people are jealous or hostile toward their own kind (like a dog barking at another dog), others feel joy and a sense of belonging when they see their peers (like a horse neighing happily at another horse). It is a commentary on human nature regarding professional or social rivalry versus solidarity.