మూడువందలు పెట్టి గేదెను కొని, మూడణాలు పెట్టి తాడు కొనలేనట్లు.

This proverb describes a person who spends a large amount of money or effort on a major project but fails or becomes stingy over a very small, essential detail required to manage it. It is used to critique someone who is 'penny wise and pound foolish,' showing how neglect of minor necessities can render a huge investment useless.

This expression refers to the inevitable ripple effect of a major catastrophe or the downfall of a powerful entity. It implies that when great people or large institutions collapse, those who depend on them or are associated with them (the smaller entities) will eventually face the same fate soon after.

This proverb describes someone who does a half-hearted or incomplete favor but demands the full respect or status associated with a close relative or a great benefactor. It is used to mock people who are stingy or perform duties poorly yet expect high praise and recognition for their supposed 'generosity'.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone prioritizes an outsider or a distant relative over their own family, only to end up losing everything. It highlights the folly of misplaced priorities and the resulting regret when a primary responsibility is neglected for a secondary one.

This expression describes extreme ingratitude or betrayal. It refers to a person who harms their benefactor or someone who has helped them in their time of need. It is used to condemn the act of biting the hand that feeds you.

In Telugu culture, sons-in-law are traditionally treated as honored guests with lavish meals and extra care. This proverb humorously points out that such extravagance is unsustainable for everyday family members. It is used to caution against excessive spending or over-pampering someone within the household to the point of financial ruin.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is so optimistic, naive, or desperate that they misinterpret ill-treatment or abuse as an honor or a benefit. It highlights a lack of self-respect or a delusional perspective on a negative situation.

This proverb highlights the difference between investments that yield long-term, easy-to-manage benefits versus those that require high maintenance. In traditional agrarian culture, a cow's maintenance is cheaper and its products are considered sacred/pure, making it a safer debt-funded investment. A buffalo, while giving more milk, requires much more fodder, water, and care, making it a risky choice if one is already in debt.

This expression is used when a student or a subordinate tries to cheat or outsmart the very person who taught them or mentored them. It signifies an act of extreme betrayal, ingratitude, or cunning deception against a mentor.

This proverb describes a situation where someone's kindness or humility is met with aggression or exploitation. It is used when an act of grace or respect is mistaken for weakness, leading the recipient to take undue advantage of the giver's goodness.