ఎద్దు పోగలేదు, పైన బాగలేదు

This expression describes a state of stagnation or lack of progress. It is used to mock someone who is unable to adapt to new changes or learn new skills, while also failing to move on from or effectively use their existing knowledge. It highlights a situation where someone is stuck in limbo, making no advancement.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one waits for a significant event or person that never arrives, resulting in wasted preparation or a lack of result. It signifies wasted anticipation or a task left incomplete because the expected catalyst never appeared. It is often used to mock someone who makes grand plans based on an uncertain event.

This proverb is used to describe someone who attempts to fix a minor problem but ends up making it much worse through foolishness or lack of common sense. It refers to a situation where a 'remedy' is more damaging than the original flaw.

This proverb describes a state of total negligence or lack of foresight. It is used to describe a person who did not take action or plan during the appropriate time (the past) and consequently feels no regret or concern about the failure in the present. It often implies a sense of indifference toward one's responsibilities.

This proverb highlights two contrasting concepts: that giving to a good cause is never a loss or waste of resources, whereas forced labor (vetti) provides no financial reward or compensation to the worker. It is used to encourage voluntary service or charity while acknowledging the exploitative nature of unpaid toil.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where there are no resources or capabilities available, yet someone makes grand, unrealistic demands. It highlights the irony of planning a massive feast or task when both the provider and the recipient lack the basic means to even start.

This expression is used to describe a person who appears extremely innocent, naive, or passive to the point of being helpless or dull-witted. It often refers to someone who lacks the basic initiative or reaction expected in common situations.

As demure as if butter would not melt in his mouth, and yet cheese will not choke him.

This expression is used to describe someone who is constantly busy and working hard but without any financial gain or productive results. It highlights the irony of being extremely occupied while remaining poor or unsuccessful.

This proverb describes a situation where someone who lacks basic stability or resources takes on unnecessary or excessive responsibilities. It is often used to mock people who are incapable of looking after themselves but still aspire for things they cannot manage, or when someone is overly ambitious despite having no foundation.

This proverb highlights two economic truths in traditional society: first, that money spent on charity or righteous causes is never a waste as it earns merit; second, that forced or involuntary labor (vetti) never results in any monetary compensation or earnings for the worker.