కుక్కకున్న గుణము, గుట్టిమునకు లేదయా.

kukkakunna gunamu, guttimunaku ledaya.

Translation

A dog has a character (loyalty) that even a person of high birth or status may lack.

Meaning

This expression is used to highlight the loyalty and gratitude of a dog, often comparing it to humans who may lack these virtues despite their social status or education. It emphasizes that loyalty is a noble trait that transcends species and status.

Related Phrases

Every head has its idiosyncrasy, and every tongue its taste. All tastes are tastes. (Italian.) There is no disputing of tastes, appetites, and fancies.

This proverb highlights the diversity of human nature and preferences. It suggests that just as different people enjoy different flavors, every individual possesses their own unique way of thinking, personality traits, and opinions. It is used to explain why people disagree or have varying interests.

* Tutti i gusti son gusti. 36

There is no salvation greater than silence.

This expression emphasizes that silence is the highest form of peace and spiritual liberation. It is often used to suggest that keeping quiet is better than engaging in unnecessary arguments or that true wisdom is found in silence.

An elephant is as high as a hill even when it is lying down.

This proverb is used to describe a person of great stature, wealth, or influence. It suggests that even when such a person is at their lowest point or in a period of decline, they are still superior or more powerful than ordinary people. It emphasizes inherent greatness that doesn't disappear completely during tough times.

What does the dog's barking matter to a log of wood?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone remains completely indifferent and unaffected by the empty threats, insults, or loud protests of others. Just as a heavy piece of wood is not moved or bothered by a dog barking at it, a person of substance or firm resolve ignores baseless criticism or noise.

When the dog that ate the food ran away, breaking the leg of the dog that was just watching.

This expression is used to describe a situation where an innocent person is punished for the mistakes or crimes committed by someone else who escaped. It highlights unfair treatment or misplaced anger.

If she lacks good character, she is indeed a person devoid of virtue.

This expression highlights that physical beauty or external attributes are worthless without good character. It is often used in moral teachings or literature to emphasize that a woman's (or person's) true value is defined by her conduct and virtues rather than her status or appearance.

When Gūṭāla Pōli was told to amend her ways, she said she would rather break off the match. Obstinate behaviour. Stubborn conduct.

This proverb describes a stubborn person who refuses to change their inherent nature or bad habits, even if it costs them their most important relationships or well-being. It is used to highlight that a person's basic temperament is often unchangeable, regardless of the consequences.

* Chi ha testa di vetro non faocia a' sass. † Il cico non des giudicar del colori.

Is a parrot chick a worthy target for the Brahmastra?

This expression is used to highlight a massive mismatch between a problem and its solution. It suggests that one should not use overwhelming force, extreme measures, or advanced weapons to deal with something small, weak, or insignificant. It is often used to criticize an overreaction or an unnecessary use of power.

Character is more important than caste

This proverb emphasizes that a person's character, virtues, and behavior are far more significant than their social status, lineage, or the community they were born into. It is used to advocate for meritocracy and moral integrity over inherited identity.

Hesitation is far from liberation.

This expression is used to advise that being overly hesitant or shy (Mogamatam) prevents one from achieving their goals or finding true freedom (Moksham). It suggests that if you are too worried about what others think or too shy to speak your mind, you will never reach your full potential or find peace.