కొయ్యబొమ్మను తెచ్చి కొట్టినా పలుకునా

This expression is used to describe a person who possesses extraordinary strength, capability, or determination. It characterizes someone who can achieve seemingly impossible tasks or overcome massive obstacles with great ease or force.

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 expression highlights the material expectations and value placed on relatives based on the assets or dowry they bring into a family. It implies that such individuals are often given more respect or importance because of their financial contribution. It is used to describe the transactional nature of some familial relationships.

This expression is used when a person is unfairly blamed or becomes the scapegoat for a collective problem or an issue they have nothing to do with. It describes a situation where one individual bears the brunt of a misfortune that was meant for many or was caused by others.

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 expression is used to describe someone who is stubborn, unresponsive, or completely devoid of emotion or reaction despite repeated efforts, criticism, or provocation. It implies that certain people or situations are as lifeless and unchanging as a wooden statue.

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.