కాయ తిన్నా కంపే, గడ్డి తిన్నా కంపే

This expression refers to an extremely stingy, ruthless, or destructive person who leaves nothing behind. It describes someone who exploits a resource or situation to the very last bit without any regard for future use or mercy, often used to characterize a person's extreme greed or harsh nature.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a person faces the same consequence or reputation regardless of the magnitude of their actions. It is often applied to bad habits or wrongdoings, implying that even a small mistake carries the same stigma or negative outcome as a larger one.

* El rio pasado, el santo olvido. † Passato il punto, gabbato il santo.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone performs a task that is completely useless, unproductive, or yields no benefit despite significant effort. Just as husk has no nutritional value for a donkey, the action described is a waste of time and energy.

This expression describes a situation where someone remains silent or acts as if nothing happened because they are trying to hide a mistake or a guilty secret. In the proverb, a merchant (traditionally avoiding onions for religious/social reasons) eats one and stays quiet to avoid the smell giving him away.

This proverb highlights the importance of hardship and a simple, rugged lifestyle in building strength versus the weakness caused by a pampered or luxurious lifestyle. In a practical sense, it suggests that basic, essential nutrients (salt/minerals) and hard work make one robust, whereas rich food (dal/protein) without corresponding physical strain leads to lethargy and lack of vigor. It is used to advise against over-indulgence and to value resilience.

This expression is used to describe someone who has done a lot of work or exerted significant effort, but for a result that is completely useless or worthless. It highlights the futility of an action where the quantity of effort does not match the quality of the outcome.

This proverb is used to describe a person with an insatiable appetite or a bottomless pit for a stomach. It refers to a situation where no matter how much someone is given or how much they consume, they act as if they have received nothing at all or remain unsatisfied.

This proverb highlights that while an unrefined person might have obvious flaws, a hypocritical or pretentious person who tries too hard to look good often has deeper, more pervasive issues or faults. It is used to criticize those who prioritize superficial appearances over genuine character.

This expression is used to describe a situation where an accessory, a side issue, or a minor detail overshadows the main person or subject. It is often applied when someone wears ornaments or clothes that are disproportionately large for their stature, or when the overhead costs of a project exceed the actual value of the project itself.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone endures something highly unpleasant or shameful just to satisfy their greed or achieve a selfish gain. It highlights the irony of tolerating something disgusting for the sake of material benefit.