నక్కజిత్తులన్నీ నావద్ద ఉండగా తప్పించుకుపోయెరా తాబేటి బుజ్జి అన్నదట

nakkajittulanni navadda undaga tappinchukupoyera tabeti bujji annadata

Translation

While I have all the fox-like tricks with me, the little tortoise escaped, said the fox.

Meaning

This expression is used when a person who considers themselves extremely cunning or clever is outsmarted by someone who appears slow or simple. It highlights the irony of a self-proclaimed expert failing at their own game against a seemingly weak opponent. It is often used to mock overconfidence.

Related Phrases

Even if all other seasons fail, the Hasta rain will not fail.

This is a traditional agricultural proverb related to the lunar mansions (Kartes). It implies that even if the rains fail during other periods, the rains during the 'Hasta Karthe' are reliable and inevitable. In a broader sense, it refers to a dependable final chance or a certainty that one can rely on when everything else fails.

Although I was as cunning as a fox, I was deceived by a tortoise. A man sat on the back of a tortoise not knowing what it was, and sank with it.

This expression is used when someone who considers themselves extremely clever or cunning is outsmarted by someone they perceived as slow, simple, or unintelligent. It highlights the irony of a 'master manipulator' being defeated by a seemingly simple person.

"What, O Appâji! [is to be done?" said the king ] " As occasion requires, O king!" replied [ the minister ].

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one's status or response changes based on the current circumstances or the influence of time. It highlights how people adapt their behavior or words depending on whether times are favorable or unfavorable, often used when someone gives a vague or situational excuse for a change in fortune.

When asked 'Old woman, why are you shaking the cradle?', she replied, 'What can I do if it doesn't stay still?'

This proverb is used to describe a person who tries to hide their natural weakness or inability by pretending it is an intentional act. In the story, an old woman shakes involuntarily due to old age; when asked why she is shaking the baby's cradle, she claims she is doing it on purpose because the cradle wouldn't stay still, hiding her frailty.

The writing on the head cannot be escaped.

This expression refers to destiny or fate (literally 'head-writing'). It is used to convey that what is destined to happen will happen regardless of one's efforts to avoid it, often used during times of unavoidable misfortune or significant life events.

Lord Narayana knows the cunning tricks of a fox.

This proverb is used to describe someone who is extremely cunning or manipulative, implying that while they may deceive ordinary people, their true nature is known to the divine or to a very wise observer. It is often used to warn that deceptive tactics will eventually be uncovered or that someone is 'acting' smart but their intentions are transparent to those who matter.

If goats escape, they go to the acacia thorns; if outcasts escape, they go to the wild date palms.

This proverb describes people returning to their habitual environments or choosing paths that align with their nature or circumstances. It is used to suggest that individuals will naturally gravitate toward familiar settings or specific struggles even when they try to break away.

If you don't like your wife, calling her 'Ose' is a mistake, and calling her 'Amma' is also a mistake.

This proverb describes a situation where someone is determined to find fault regardless of the actions taken. When a person is prejudiced or dislikes someone, even respectful or neutral behavior will be misinterpreted or criticized. It is used to highlight unfair bias and the impossibility of pleasing someone who has already made up their mind to be unhappy with you.

Will the head break just by mentioning a club?

This proverb is used to describe someone who is overly sensitive or fearful. It implies that a person shouldn't get hurt or react dramatically just because something threatening or unpleasant was mentioned. It highlights the difference between a verbal threat or a word and the actual physical action.

The one who moves about without hurting others and without getting hurt himself is the blessed one.

This famous poem from Sumati Satakam emphasizes the importance of diplomacy, non-violence, and self-preservation. It suggests that a wise and successful person is one who navigates life's conflicts by ensuring they don't cause pain to others while also protecting themselves from harm or unnecessary trouble.