డబ్బు ఇవ్వను, డబ్బు మీది దుమ్ము ఇవ్వను

dabbu ivvanu, dabbu midi dummu ivvanu

Translation

I won't give a Dabb, I won't give the dust on a Dabb. ( 35 ).

Meaning

This expression is used to describe an extremely stingy or miserly person who refuses to give away even the slightest bit of their wealth, often to an irrational degree. It highlights a character that is uncompromising and excessively greedy.

Related Phrases

As a public benefaction, I will buy a cloth for my wife; give me a pice from each house.

This proverb is used to describe a person who wants to fulfill their personal responsibilities or selfish desires using others' resources, while pretending that they are doing a great service to society. It mocks those who seek public funds for private gains under the guise of altruism.

He who gives is a donor, he who does not give is a clout.

This expression highlights that generosity earns a person respect and a lasting legacy. A person who helps others is remembered as a benefactor, whereas someone who is stingy or refuses to help is quickly forgotten or disregarded by society. It is used to encourage charity and reflect on the social value of giving.

The impertinent speech of a beggar.

A person without courage is of no use even with money.

This proverb highlights that courage and self-confidence are more valuable than material wealth. It is used to describe a situation where a person, despite having financial resources, cannot achieve anything or defend themselves because they lack the necessary boldness or character.

The one who didn't pay the money was the first to board the boat.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone who has contributed the least or has no right to a benefit is the first to claim it or rush for it. It highlights the irony of people who avoid responsibility but are quick to enjoy the rewards.

As for charity, I can't give; as for fines, I can pay. Said by a quarrelsome ruffian.

This proverb is used to describe a person's stubbornness or a specific situation where one refuses to spend money for a noble cause or charity (Danamu), but is eventually forced to spend even larger amounts on fines, losses, or useless expenses (Dandaga) due to their own negligence or ego.

[One who can tell] a hundred lies, [one who can tell] a thousand lies. Ten times as bad.

This proverb is used to convey that no matter how many difficulties or challenges (poverty/troubles) one faces, there are always ways to overcome them. It emphasizes human ingenuity and the availability of endless solutions to any number of problems. It is often used to encourage creative problem-solving in desperate situations.

A customer who doesn't pay a single coin shows excessive aggression.

This proverb describes people who contribute nothing or have no real skin in the game, yet act overly demanding or authoritative. It is used to critique those who want the best results or services without paying or putting in any effort, often compensating for their lack of contribution with empty arrogance or bossiness.

If you have money, you enjoy Delhi-like luxuries; if you don't have money, you face hardships/destitution.

This expression highlights the power of wealth in determining social status and comfort. It contrasts the extreme luxury one can enjoy with money against the struggle and lack of basic respect one faces in poverty.

The one who does not pay sits at the front of the boat.

This proverb describes the irony of someone who contributes nothing yet expects the most prominent or first-class treatment. It is used to mock people who act entitled or try to take the lead without having paid their share or fulfilled their responsibilities.

The man that did not pay his fare, got into the boat first.

This proverb describes a situation where someone who has contributed the least or nothing at all is the most eager or demanding to receive the benefits. It is used to mock people who display entitlement or boldness despite having no rightful claim or contribution.