కదిపితే కందిరీగల తుట్టె

kadipite kandirigala tutte

Translation

If disturbed, it is a wasp's nest.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a person or a situation that appears calm but will react with intense hostility or create a massive problem if provoked or interfered with. It suggests that touching a sensitive issue will trigger a swarm of complications or an aggressive response.

Related Phrases

When he talks his words are jasmine, but when he wrangles they are hornets.

This proverb describes a person whose behavior changes drastically depending on the situation. When they are in a good mood or speaking kindly, their words are as sweet and fragrant as jasmines. However, when provoked or in a conflict, their words become sharp, painful, and aggressive like a swarm of wasps.

While lying down on a canopy bed, he supposedly asked the canopy pillar to do his work.

This proverb is used to describe an extremely lazy person who wants others to do their work even while they are comfortably resting. It highlights a sense of entitlement and lack of effort, where one expects service or results without moving a muscle.

If wasps build nests in the house, it is said that the women of the house will become pregnant.

This is a traditional Telugu folk belief or superstition. It suggests that the appearance of a wasp nest inside a home is an auspicious sign or an omen indicating that a woman in that household will soon conceive or is already pregnant.

If the Âruga fails, we shall have Kandi. These are both sown together. The Âruga crop sometimes perishes. To have two strings to one's bow. Good riding at two anchors men have told ; For if one break, the other may hold.

This proverb is used to describe a 'hit or miss' situation or a risky venture where there are only two extreme possibilities. It signifies a state of uncertainty where one will either get a quick, small result or a delayed, substantial one, often used when someone takes a gamble without being sure of the specific outcome.

* Aut Cæsar aut nullus.

If it happens, it's castor seeds; if not, it's pigeon peas.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one is prepared for two possible outcomes, often in farming or business. Castor plants grow in low rainfall, while pigeon peas need more rain. It signifies a win-win strategy or a fallback plan where regardless of the circumstances, there will be some form of harvest or benefit.

A chaotic mess or a tedious burden

This expression is used to describe a complicated, bothersome, or disorganized situation that involves many unwanted responsibilities or attachments. It often refers to a person being entangled in a series of tedious tasks or having to manage a large, unorganized group of people or things.

If it works out, it's Kodo millet; if not, it's Pigeon pea.

This proverb is used to describe a 'win-win' situation or a situation where there are only two possible outcomes, both of which are acceptable or manageable. It highlights a state of being prepared for either of two specific results, often implying that even if the primary goal isn't met, the alternative is still useful.

If disturbed, it is a wasps' nest

This expression is used to describe a person, situation, or topic that, when provoked or touched upon, results in a massive and aggressive reaction. It suggests that a seemingly quiet matter could lead to a swarm of problems or fierce opposition if interfered with.

One who possesses wealth is the king.

This expression highlights that in the material world, wealth often dictates power, social status, and authority. It is used to describe situations where influence follows financial means or to remark on the respect accorded to the wealthy.

If the pigeon pea crop yields, the famine will end.

This proverb highlights the importance of the red gram (pigeon pea) crop in agrarian life. It signifies that a single successful harvest of a staple crop can alleviate long-term hardship or financial distress. It is used to express that one significant success can solve many prevailing problems.