దత్త పుత్ర శోకము

datta putra shokamu

Translation

Grief for an adopted son. Slight grief.

Meaning

This expression refers to grief or sorrow that is artificial, short-lived, or disproportionate to the actual loss. In traditional contexts, it suggests that the mourning for an adopted child might not be as deep or lasting as the mourning for a biological child. It is used to describe someone who is overacting or pretending to be deeply affected by a situation that doesn't truly concern them or shouldn't cause such intense sorrow.

Related Phrases

A scholar's son is a total fool.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the child of a highly educated or talented person turns out to be ignorant or unskilled. It highlights that wisdom and intelligence are not always inherited and is often used to mock someone who fails to live up to their parent's reputation.

A son for the property, and a daughter for the love.

This traditional expression reflects a cultural sentiment that a son is needed to inherit and manage the family's assets or lineage, while a daughter is essential for providing emotional warmth, care, and affection within the family. It highlights the perceived complementary roles of children in a household.

Even if he dies childless, it is better to have a son.

This proverb is rooted in traditional beliefs where having a son was considered essential for family legacy and performing last rites. It suggests that the status or merit of having had a son outweighs the sorrow of losing him, or more broadly, that even a failed or short-lived positive outcome is better than having nothing at all.

Poison covered with sugar.

This expression is used to describe something that appears attractive, sweet, or beneficial on the surface but is actually harmful or dangerous underneath. It is often applied to deceptive words, treacherous people, or tempting offers that have hidden negative consequences.

A flattering speech is honeyed poison. (Latin.)* Sugared words generally prove bitter. (Spanish.)†

A lazy person has many vanities.

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.

A woman's grief and a man's melody are the same.

This proverb suggests that both expressions are often unreliable or short-lived. It implies that a woman's weeping can sometimes be temporary or used as a tactic, just as a man's romantic singing or passion might not always represent deep, lasting commitment. It is used to caution against taking such emotional displays at face value.

When the father said, 'You will drown this house, you bad son,' the son replied, 'Why the doubt, father?'

This proverb is used to describe a person who is blatantly and shamelessly destructive or incompetent. It highlights a situation where someone is not only doing something wrong or harmful but is also boastful or overly confident about their ability to cause ruin, showing no remorse or intention to change.

The son of a scholar is a complete blockhead

This proverb is used to describe a situation where the child of a highly learned or talented person turns out to be ignorant or foolish. It highlights that intelligence and wisdom are not always hereditary and mocks the irony when a great person's offspring lacks basic sense.

Belonging to the 'all-sounds' lineage, and being the sons of Pullamma.

This humorous expression is used to describe people who lack a proper pedigree or distinguished background but try to sound sophisticated by using high-sounding, pseudo-Sanskrit words. It is often applied to commoners who pretend to be intellectual or elite, highlighting the contrast between their grand claims ('Sakala Shabda') and their simple, ordinary reality ('Pullamma Putrulu').

O good son, do not ruin the house/family.

This is a sarcastic expression used to warn someone whose actions are causing significant harm, disgrace, or financial loss to their own family or household. While 'Suputra' literally means 'good son', it is used ironically here to point out the person's irresponsible behavior.