దప్పిగొన్నప్పుడు బావి త్రవ్వినట్టు

dappigonnappudu bavi travvinattu

Translation

Like digging a well only when one is thirsty

Meaning

This proverb refers to a lack of foresight or preparation. It is used to describe a situation where someone waits until a crisis or urgent need arises before starting to prepare the necessary resources, which is often too late to be effective.

Related Phrases

Like buying bread from someone who already has the flour.

This expression describes a situation where a transaction or deal is made with someone who possesses all the necessary resources, making the outcome guaranteed and effortless. It is used to indicate a secure and reliable way of getting something done without complications.

To look at, a tiny mouse; to dig through walls, a bandicoot.

This expression is used to describe someone who looks small, innocent, or harmless in appearance but possesses a surprising capacity for destruction or performs heavy, unexpected tasks. It is similar to the English proverb 'Don't judge a book by its cover,' but specifically focuses on hidden strength or deceptive capability.

A hunchback's true shape/skill should be seen when they are lying down.

This proverb suggests that a person's true nature, hidden flaws, or secret skills are only revealed under specific circumstances or when they are in a certain position. Just as a hunchback's physical deformity is most apparent or uniquely positioned when they lie down, some things can only be judged or understood when the right situation arises.

Like coming for a meal and digging a pit.

This expression describes extreme treachery or betrayal. It is used to refer to someone who receives hospitality or help from another person but then proceeds to plot against them or cause them harm.

Will I fall when things are going well? Will I fall when I am drunk?

This proverb is used to describe someone who makes excuses or tries to justify their mistakes with irrelevant reasoning. It highlights the behavior of people who refuse to admit their faults when things go wrong, often acting as if they are in control even when they are clearly failing or intoxicated.

Like a ghost appearing when digging a well

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone starts a simple or necessary task but ends up facing an unexpected, significant problem or an unforeseen disaster. It highlights a scenario where a solution-seeking action inadvertently leads to more trouble.

Like digging a well while the house is on fire

This proverb describes the foolishness of starting preparations or seeking a solution only when a disaster has already struck. It highlights a lack of foresight and the futility of reactive measures that are too late to be effective.

Like coming for a meal and then digging up the stove.

This proverb describes extreme ingratitude or malicious behavior. It refers to a person who accepts someone's hospitality (coming for a meal) but then proceeds to cause harm or ruin the source of that kindness (digging up/destroying the stove). It is used to criticize those who betray their benefactors.

The one who digs the pit is the one who falls into it.

This expression is the Telugu equivalent of 'He who digs a pit for others falls into it himself.' It is used to describe a situation where someone's malicious plans or traps for others end up causing their own downfall. It emphasizes the concept of poetic justice or karma.

Who can manage to dig a well in the sand?

This expression is used to describe a task that is futile, impossible, or extremely difficult because the foundation is unstable. Just as the walls of a well dug in loose sand will constantly collapse, some projects or efforts are destined to fail due to inherent instability or lack of proper resources.