కన్ను మనదే, వేలూ మనదేనని పొడుచుకుంటామా?

kannu manade, velu manadenani poduchukuntama?

Translation

Just because both the eye and the finger are ours, would we poke our own eye?

Meaning

This expression is used to advise against self-harm or hurting one's own interests, especially during internal disputes or family conflicts. It emphasizes that even if someone involved is 'one of our own,' we should not act recklessly or destructively, as the ultimate loss is our own.

Related Phrases

Just because we eat meat, do we tie the bones around our neck?

This proverb is used to convey that while one may enjoy certain benefits or indulge in specific habits, they don't necessarily want to carry the burdens, evidence, or negative consequences associated with them. It highlights the distinction between enjoying a pleasure and being burdened by its baggage.

If the son is ours, will the daughter-in-law also become ours?

This proverb is used to express the reality that one's influence or claim over their own children does not automatically extend to their children's spouses. It highlights the natural distance or lack of blood relation between a person and their daughter-in-law, suggesting that one cannot expect the same level of loyalty or belonging from her as they do from their son.

Even if the wound heals, the scar (stiffness) remains.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where, although a primary problem or conflict has been resolved, the emotional damage, psychological impact, or physical trace of that event persists. It highlights that certain experiences leave lasting marks that do not disappear even after the initial 'pain' is gone.

Even if the son is ours, will the daughter-in-law become ours?

This expression highlights the inherent distance or difference in perspective felt toward someone who enters a family from the outside. It is used to suggest that despite biological or legal ties, a newcomer (like a daughter-in-law) might not share the same deep-rooted loyalty or belonging as one's own children, or that family dynamics change significantly after marriage.

We may hide our hand, but can we hide our caste/lineage?

This expression suggests that while one can hide their actions, intentions, or wealth (symbolized by the hand), one's true nature, upbringing, or inherent identity cannot be concealed for long. It is often used to imply that a person's character or background will eventually reveal itself through their behavior.

A thorn does not leave without causing a burning sensation.

This expression means that certain painful experiences or mistakes inevitably leave a lingering sting or consequence even after the problem is addressed. It is often used to describe how a sharp insult or a bad deed continues to hurt long after the event has passed, implying that relief is never instantaneous.

That which cures is the treatment; that which heals is the medicine.

This proverb emphasizes that results are more important than methods. It means that the effectiveness of a remedy is what defines its value. No matter how expensive or elaborate a treatment is, it is only considered successful if it actually solves the problem.

The bridegroom is ours, but his earrings are not ours.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone or something might be closely related to you or under your control, but the resources or assets they possess belong to someone else. It highlights the distinction between personal relationships and ownership of property, or a situation where one's authority is limited despite a close connection.

When invited to come inside, claiming the whole house belongs to you.

This proverb describes a situation where someone is given a small favor or a bit of hospitality, but they take undue advantage of it and try to dominate or claim ownership of everything. It is used to criticize people who don't know their boundaries or who exhibit overbearing behavior after receiving a simple courtesy.

Even if the wound heals, the scar remains.

This proverb is used to describe situations where a conflict or injury might be resolved, but the emotional pain, memory, or damage to a reputation persists. It emphasizes that while physical or immediate problems can be fixed, the lasting impact or 'scar' stays forever.