దగ్గుపాటివాళ్ళకే దగ్గు లెక్కువ

This proverb is used to describe a person who is so weak, timid, or useless that they lack even the basic vitality or presence to be of any value. It suggests that if a person cannot even assert themselves or perform a simple action like coughing, they are considered completely ineffective in society.

This proverb is used to describe someone who lacks actual capability or value but makes a lot of noise, gives too many excuses, or puts on a big show of importance. Much like a counterfeit or damaged coin that is inspected more closely due to its flaws, an incompetent person often tries to compensate for their deficiency with unnecessary talk or complex behavior.

This expression is used when someone focuses on petty faults or criticisms instead of showing hospitality or appreciation when a person visits them. It describes a cynical attitude where one looks for defects rather than welcoming the guest.

This expression is used to describe a person who lacks common sense or productivity but has excessive demands or needs. It highlights a mismatch between one's capabilities and their consumption or expectations, often used sarcastically to mock laziness or incompetence combined with greed.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone lacks resources but has excessive needs or demands. It highlights the irony of having the least capacity to fulfill requirements while having the greatest desires or appetites. It is often used to comment on how problems seem to multiply for those already in a miserable state.

This proverb suggests that certain things are naturally impossible to conceal. Just as one cannot suppress a physical cough, emotions like shyness or feelings of guilt/shame will eventually manifest through one's behavior or expressions. It is used to describe situations where the truth or an emotion is too obvious to keep secret.

This expression describes a situation where someone suddenly becomes humble, respectful, or starts calling an enemy 'brother' only when faced with an immediate, life-threatening danger or severe punishment. It is used to mock people who only show manners or submission when they are under duress.

This proverb is used to describe a person who avoids hard work but puts a lot of effort into their appearance, fashion, or showing off. It suggests that those who are unproductive often focus excessively on superficial things.

This proverb highlights the fleeting nature of philosophical realizations or remorse. People often express deep wisdom or regret during somber moments (like a funeral), but quickly return to their usual habits and desires once they are back in the comfort of their daily lives.

In Telugu, 'Chevi' can mean both 'ear' and 'key'. This expression refers to a situation where two parties must cooperate because they each hold a vital part of a solution, or more colloquially, it describes a situation where authority or access is divided, preventing any one person from acting independently.