మనిషి కాటుకు మందు లేదు.

manishi katuku mandu ledu.

Translation

There is no medicine for the bite of a man. The bite of an enraged man is said to be fatally poisonous.

Meaning

This proverb refers to the malicious nature of human behavior, specifically betrayal, gossip, or cruelty. While there are remedies for snake bites or animal wounds, the damage caused by a person's words or actions can be irreparable and impossible to heal with physical medicine.

Related Phrases

There is dross in gold, but there is no defect in man.

This expression is used to highlight the inherent value and dignity of a human being. It suggests that while even a precious metal like gold might contain impurities or waste (pollu), a person's life and character should be regarded as invaluable and without waste. It is often used to emphasize human worth over material wealth.

Like saying, 'If I get up, I am not a human'

This expression describes a person who makes grand, empty boasts or threats while being lazy or inactive. It is used to mock someone who talks big about their capabilities or temper but fails to take any actual action.

When asked why he wrote 'Human' under a drawing of a human, he said otherwise people would think it's a monkey.

This expression is used to mock someone's poor skills, incompetence, or lack of clarity in their work. It highlights a situation where the quality of an outcome is so poor that it requires an explicit label or explanation to avoid being misunderstood for something completely different.

Like saying " Take the gun and shoot" when there is no powder and no ball.

This expression describes a situation where someone is asked to perform a task or achieve a result without being provided with the necessary tools, resources, or basic requirements. It highlights the absurdity of expecting an outcome when the fundamental means to achieve it are missing.

Neither a string nor a top

This expression is used to describe a person who is irresponsible, lacks roots, or has no attachments or accountability. Just as a spinning top cannot be controlled or operated without a string, it refers to someone who is wandering aimlessly or a situation that has no proper foundation or control.

No man is useless.

This expression is used to emphasize the dignity, value, and resilience of a human being. It suggests that a person should not be treated as something trivial, disposable, or easily crushed like a blade of grass. It is often used to assert one's self-respect or when reminding others to treat someone with the importance they deserve.

There is no medicine for mental affliction. Gold is no balm to a wounded spirit.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where a problem is caused by one's own thoughts, anxieties, or psychological state rather than a physical ailment. It implies that if someone is suffering due to their own mindset or imaginary fears, no external medicine can cure them; only a change in their own thinking can help.

A demon can be born to a human, but a human will not be born to a demon.

This expression suggests that good people can sometimes have children with bad traits or wicked behavior (metaphorically 'demons'), but it is highly unlikely or impossible for truly evil or inherently cruel individuals to produce someone with saintly or humanistic qualities. It is often used to comment on lineage, upbringing, and the unpredictable nature of character inheritance.

That which heals is the medicine

This expression is used to convey that the effectiveness of a remedy or solution is what truly matters, regardless of its cost, origin, or reputation. If a treatment works and the ailment is cured, it is considered the right 'medicine'. It is often applied to situations where practical results are valued over theoretical perfection.

Gold may have impurities, but this person has none.

This expression is used to describe a person of impeccable character and unwavering integrity. It suggests that while even a precious metal like gold might have flaws or dross, the person being referred to is absolutely perfect in their conduct and honesty.