కుళ్లి కుళ్లి కాయ నష్టం, కాలి కాలి కట్టె నష్టం

This proverb is used to emphasize that an object's or person's inherent nature cannot be changed just because of outward similarities or pretension. Just as an onion's smell prevents it from being a jasmine, and a crow's appearance doesn't make it a melodic cuckoo, intrinsic traits define true character.

This expression is used to describe someone who tries to sound clever or correct others by using a different word that means exactly the same thing. It highlights a distinction without a difference, mocking someone who argues over trivial terminology or semantics when the end result is identical.

This expression is used to mock someone who exhibits youthful desires or immature behaviors that are inappropriate for their old age. It implies that certain actions or interests are out of place given a person's stage in life.

This proverb is used to highlight that certain things have inherent limitations and can never replace the original or the ideal. Just as an onion's pungent smell can never match the fragrance of a jasmine, a temporary or illegitimate relationship cannot provide the status, stability, or respect of a legal marriage.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a person who is incapable of managing their own basic responsibilities or needs suddenly takes on an even larger or more complex burden. It mocks the irony of someone failing at the individual level yet attempting something that requires much more resources or maturity.

This expression refers to a person who is extremely stubborn, obstinate, or unresponsive to advice and logic. Just as a partially burnt, thick log of wood is difficult to handle and neither fully burns away nor remains useful, this phrase describes a person whose behavior is difficult to change or manage.

This expression is used to mock someone who, despite being incapable of helping themselves or being in a dire state, tries to take on additional burdens or pretend they can provide for others. It highlights the irony of someone who cannot sustain themselves but is followed by others (like a pet cat) expecting to be fed.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where excessive delay or over-processing leads to a complete loss. Just as a fruit becomes useless if left to over-ripen (rot) and wood becomes useless if left to burn completely to ash, being indecisive or overthinking a situation until it is too late results in wasted resources and missed opportunities.

This proverb is used to describe a period of misfortune where everything seems to go wrong. It implies that when one is going through a streak of bad luck, even harmless objects or trusted situations can unexpectedly cause harm or turn against them.

This proverb refers to traditional preferences in village life: a barber's razor or tools are considered better when they are 'old' (well-seasoned/tested), whereas a washerman is judged by how 'new' (clean/fresh) the clothes look. It is used to describe how different professions or situations require different standards—some value experience and age, while others value freshness and appearance.