గ్రాసం లేని కొలువు - రసం లేని కావ్యం

This expression describes something that is incomplete or lacks the essential elements that give it character or dignity. Just as a festive house is incomplete without a 'thoranam' (decorative leaf garland) and a musical band feels lackluster without the 'veeranam' (a type of powerful drum), a situation or object is seen as dull or ineffective when its primary decorative or functional feature is missing.

This proverb emphasizes that tools or skills alone are useless without the bravery or determination to use them. Just as a sharp sword is ineffective in the hands of a coward, resources are only valuable when paired with a bold spirit.

This proverb emphasizes that certain things are incomplete or ineffective without their essential components. Just as a royal assembly lacks dignity without the sound of the veeranam (drum), a traditional sweet like Boore will not be tasty or soft if the batter/filling isn't soaked or fermented properly. It is used to highlight the importance of fundamental requirements for any task or entity to be successful.

This expression highlights the importance of aesthetic beauty and eloquence in art. Just as a bride's charm is incomplete without grace and elegance (vilasamu), a literary work or poem (kavyam) is considered lifeless or unappealing if it lacks melodic, sweet, and well-chosen words (manjulalapamu). It is used to emphasize that form and style are as essential as content.

This proverb emphasizes that every effect must have a cause. Just as a traditional sweet is incomplete without its stuffing and a wedding feels incomplete without music, every event or action in life is inevitably linked to a prior reason or motive. It is used to suggest that nothing happens by pure chance without an underlying reason.

This expression refers to a job or position that provides no salary, benefits, or basic means of survival. It is used to describe an unrewarding occupation where the effort put in does not yield even the most essential returns.

* Obra feita dinheiro espera.

This proverb describes the inherent nature of certain entities. It suggests that a hen is always busy scratching the ground for food (never resting), and traditionally implies that in business, a merchant prioritizes profit over personal loyalty or trust. It is used to describe situations where constant restlessness or self-interest is expected.

This proverb highlights that a job or position that doesn't provide enough income for basic survival is useless and lacks dignity. In traditional context, a mustache was seen as a symbol of pride and honor for a man; similarly, a job's primary purpose is to provide livelihood, and without that, it holds no value or respect.

This expression highlights things that are hollow or incomplete. It suggests that wealth is meaningless without a family to share it with, just as having a famous name or reputation is empty if it is not backed by actual knowledge or expertise.

This expression refers to a job or position that does not provide enough salary or benefits to meet basic living needs. It is used to describe unrewarding work or a situation where the effort put in far exceeds the meager compensation received.