నడిచే దారిలో గడ్డి మొలవదు

nadiche darilo gaddi molavadu

Translation

Grass does not grow on a path that is walked upon

Meaning

This expression means that constant practice, activity, or usage prevents stagnation or decay. Just as grass cannot grow on a busy trail, a skill that is regularly practiced will not be forgotten, and a house that is lived in will stay in good condition.

Related Phrases

On a path walked by many, grass does not grow; even if it grows, it does not flourish.

This proverb signifies that when a task or a path is frequently used, tested, or handled by experts and the public, errors or 'weeds' are unlikely to persist. It is used to emphasize that well-trodden methods are reliable and that constant activity prevents decay or stagnation.

Even a blade of grass will not grow on a path walked by four (many) people.

This expression signifies that constant use, movement, or activity in a particular place prevents any growth or change from taking root. It is often used to describe how popular systems or well-trodden paths stay clear and functional through sheer volume of use, or metaphorically, how constant scrutiny prevents secrets from growing.

One earns, while another calculates.

This proverb describes a situation where one person works hard to earn wealth or resources, while someone else (often an idle person or an inheritor) spends, manages, or simply keeps track of that wealth. It is used to highlight the contrast between the person doing the labor and the person enjoying or controlling the benefits.

Like a hemp plant growing in a Tulasî garden. A black sheep in the family.

This expression is used to describe a wicked, bad, or unworthy person who is born into an illustrious family or found among a group of noble and virtuous people. It highlights a stark contrast where one negative element spoils the sanctity or reputation of its surroundings.

A paddy sprout and a male sprout (child) are one and the same.

This proverb highlights that both a paddy sprout and a male child require constant care, protection, and nurturing in their early stages to ensure a productive future. Just as a young plant is vulnerable to pests and weather, a young boy needs proper guidance and safeguarding to grow into a responsible man.

Coriander seeds won't sprout unless rubbed with a slipper.

This proverb is used to describe people who only respond or comply when treated harshly or strictly. Just as coriander seeds need to be rubbed vigorously (traditionally with footwear or a rough surface) to break their hard shell and sprout, some individuals only perform their duties or behave correctly when subjected to stern discipline or force.

As you walk you widen the path, as you put [earth] you raise the ledge.

This proverb suggests that tasks or complications can expand as you engage with them, but stability and progress come from consistent effort and arrangement. It is used to describe how journeys or projects feel longer as you go, yet gain structure as you manage them.

Donka is a path between two fields. Kuduru is a ledge made with earth round a mortar in which grain is pounded.

Even moss doesn't grow on a path frequented by many people.

This proverb highlights that frequent use or constant activity prevents stagnation and decay. It is often used to emphasize that skills stay sharp with practice, or that a place that is well-maintained and busy remains clean and functional. It suggests that consistent action keeps things from withering away.

A barking dog does not bite

This proverb is used to describe people who make a lot of noise, threats, or boasts but rarely take any actual action. It implies that those who are truly dangerous or effective do not need to shout about it, and those who shout are often harmless.

It doesn't matter which way the elephant goes, but he is lying down in the path where mosquitoes go.

This proverb is used to describe a person who ignores major, significant problems or opportunities (the elephant) and instead focuses all their attention on trivial, insignificant matters (the mosquitoes). It highlights a lack of priority and wasting effort on petty issues.