గొడ్డుకు ఒక దెబ్బ, మనిషికి ఒక మాట

This proverb is used to emphasize that a sensible person should understand and act upon a verbal instruction or warning given once, whereas an animal requires physical force (a lash) to be controlled. It is often said to someone who doesn't listen despite repeated advice.

This proverb emphasizes that an intelligent or sensible person understands and acts upon a single word of advice or instruction, just as a disciplined ox responds to a single stroke. It is used to suggest that wise people do not need repeated warnings or explanations to do the right thing.

This proverb emphasizes that a sensible person should understand a point with a single explanation or instruction, whereas an animal requires physical force (like a whip) to obey. It is used to suggest that intelligent people should be responsible and act upon being told once, without needing constant reminders or harsh treatment.

This proverb highlights that nature or common benefits do not discriminate between the essential and the non-essential. It is used to explain that certain circumstances or rules apply universally to everyone involved in a situation, regardless of their status or importance.

This proverb is used to express dissatisfaction or indifference towards something that is easily available or lacks excitement. In traditional Telugu culture, marrying a maternal aunt's son was common and expected, leading to a sense of familiarity that lacked the thrill of a new alliance. Similarly, 'undrallu' are simple steamed rice balls, considered plain compared to elaborate sweets. It describes a situation where familiarity breeds a lack of value.

This expression highlights the varying levels of maintenance and service required for different animals or assets. It implies that certain possessions come with heavy responsibilities or high costs; specifically, that a buffalo requires a dedicated person to look after it constantly, just as an elephant or horse needs vast resources.

This proverb highlights that sensible or noble people understand a hint or a single request and act accordingly without needing repeated instructions or force. Similarly, a well-trained or strong ox requires only a single stroke to perform its task. It is used to suggest that intelligent people do not need to be constantly nagged or punished to do the right thing.

This proverb describes the nature of opportunism or necessity. Just as a heron moves from one pond to another in search of fish, a businessman or merchant moves from village to village to find the best market. It is used to suggest that people who seek specific goals or profits will go wherever the opportunities are best, rather than staying in one fixed place.

This proverb highlights the inevitability of certain outcomes when an expert or a predator is in their element. It is used to describe situations where a calculated attack or a predetermined consequence is impossible to escape, emphasizing that once a professional or a force of nature commits to an action, success for them (and failure for the target) is certain.

This proverb highlights the difference between physical needs and social security. While animals thrive purely on food, a human's well-being and status in society are determined by their wealth, assets, or family support. It is used to emphasize that material or social security is as vital for humans as nutrition is for animals.