కొయ్యబొమ్మ దెచ్చి కొట్టినా పలుకునా

This proverb describes a person who is not only uncharitable or unhelpful but also behaves rudely or aggressively towards those seeking help. It is used to highlight a situation where instead of receiving expected hospitality or assistance, one receives harsh treatment.

This expression is used to describe a person who remains silent, unresponsive, or emotionless despite being provoked, questioned, or scolded. It highlights the futility of expecting a reaction from someone who is indifferent or stubborn.

Used to describe a situation where someone goes on a great, significant journey or puts in immense effort, only to achieve something trivial, useless, or even negative. It highlights the disparity between the effort expended and the poor outcome achieved.

This proverb emphasizes self-reliance and the bounty of nature over patronage from the powerful. It suggests that what one earns through honest labor on their own land is superior and more sustainable than gifts or favors received from those in power, which often come with conditions or strings attached.

This proverb suggests that a person's inherent nature or character cannot be changed simply by changing their environment or giving them better facilities. It is used to describe situations where someone lacks the natural talent, wisdom, or temperament for a specific role, no matter how much they are encouraged or forced.

This expression is used to highlight that an individual's innate nature or character cannot be changed by simply altering their environment or appearances. Just as a crow cannot sing like a parrot regardless of its surroundings, a person lacking refinement or specific virtues cannot suddenly exhibit them just by being placed in an elite or sophisticated setting.

Wash a dog, comb a dog, still a dog is but a dog. (French.)*

This proverb highlights the traditional power and temperament associated with the Velama (warrior/landlord) community in historical contexts. It means that when dealing with people in positions of absolute authority or those with a short fuse, one must only say things that please them or be prepared for severe consequences. It is used to describe situations where one must be extremely tactful or subservient to avoid danger.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is out of their depth or placed in a sophisticated environment where they do not belong. Just as an owl remains silent and awkward in a cage designed for a singing parrot, a person lacking knowledge or social grace will remain unresponsive or 'clueless' when placed in a situation that requires intellect or refined behavior.

This expression is used to describe a person who lacks a firm stance or individual principles, instead adapting their speech and behavior to please the people they are currently with. It can also refer to how someone's environment or upbringing heavily influences their dialect and opinions.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone's attempt to improve or create something noble results in a complete failure or a ridiculous mess. It highlights unintended negative consequences of unskilled or over-ambitious work.