ఏటిదరి మానికి ఎప్పుడూ చలనము

etidari maniki eppudu chalanamu

Translation

A tree on the river bank always totters.

Meaning

This proverb describes a state of constant insecurity or precariousness. Just as a tree on a river bank is at constant risk of being uprooted by erosion or floods, it refers to a person or a situation that lacks stability and is always under threat of downfall.

Notes

Said of a man in an insecure position.

Related Phrases

Observe a short woman's strength when she gets onto the woven bed.

This proverb suggests that one's true capability or talent is only revealed during action or when the appropriate opportunity arises, rather than by judging based on physical appearance or stature.

When will the waves of the sea cease [ to roll ] ? When will you bathe ? i. e. Will you wait to bathe until the sea is motionless ?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone waits for all problems or obstacles to disappear before starting a task. It highlights the futility of waiting for a 'perfect' or 'trouble-free' time, as life—like the ocean waves—is continuous. Usage: To advise someone to stop procrastinating or waiting for ideal conditions.

Listening to hearsay leads to ruin.

This expression warns against acting upon rumors or gossip without verification. It suggests that paying heed to malicious talk or the instigations of others will ultimately lead to one's own downfall or harm.

A tree on the bank of a river.

This expression refers to a person or thing in a highly precarious or unstable position. Just as a tree on a riverbank is at constant risk of being uprooted or washed away by floods, it describes someone whose life, job, or situation is uncertain and could collapse at any moment.

Like a washerman's children for a garment that is already too small.

This proverb describes a situation where resources are already scarce, and then a new, unnecessary burden is added. It refers to how a washerman's family might wear the clothes given for washing, further wearing out garments that were already insufficient or tight for the original owner.

Listening to hearsay leads to ruin, while honest words can be sharp.

This expression warns that acting on gossip or others' manipulative words causes harm. Conversely, sincere or truthful advice may feel blunt or 'sharp' like a spice, but it is ultimately beneficial. It is used to advise someone to be wary of rumors and appreciate honest criticism.

For the husband who does not love his wife, there is not enough salt in the İlakûra.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone who is already biased or displeased with another person will find faults in everything they do, no matter how trivial or perfect the work is. It suggests that when there is a lack of affection or a pre-existing prejudice, excuses for criticism are easily invented.

This herb ( Salsola Indica ) is occasionally used as a vegetable, and is naturally very salt. Where there is no love, all are faults. If you want a pretence to whip a dog, it is enough to say he ate up the frying pan.

A thief's wife is always a widow. She is always in danger of becoming one.

This proverb highlights the constant state of anxiety and uncertainty faced by those who rely on illegal or unethical activities. Just as a thief's wife lives in perpetual fear that her husband might be caught or killed at any moment, people involved in wrongdoing can never enjoy true peace of mind because the consequences of their actions are always looming.

" When did you go to the river, when did you bring the sand ?" [asked the husband ] "If women like, how long will that take ?" [saucily replied the wife ] "If men like, how long will this take ?" [said the husband ] giving her four double-handers. The husband's question was caused by finding sand in his food.

This proverb is a sarcastic take on making excuses and the consequences of over-cleverness. It describes a situation where a woman tries to cover up a lie with a boastful remark about her capabilities, only for her husband to respond with a harsh reality check. It is used to caution against making unrealistic claims or using wit to hide faults, as it may provoke an equally strong or stronger reaction.

* Il faut tendre volle selon le vent.

Without revealing the secret and without making a sound

This expression is used to describe doing something very stealthily, secretly, or quietly without attracting any attention. It is similar to the English phrase 'hush-hush' or 'behind closed doors'.