నాలిముచ్చువాణ్ణి, నీళ్ళు నమిలేవాణ్ణి నమ్మరాదు

This is a traditional proverb reflecting historical social dynamics and specific behavioral observations. It serves as a cautionary saying about remaining vigilant and cautious of individuals' intentions based on their positioning or actions, implying that potential betrayal or deceit can come from those close to you or those leading you.

It is better to deal with someone who is openly angry or short-tempered because their feelings are transparent, whereas a deceitful or hypocritical person (who hides their true intentions) is much more dangerous to live with or trust.

This is a historical folk saying or 'sameta' that warns of unpredictability. The literal comparison suggests that just as the Thumma tree is thorny and difficult to handle, one should be cautious in dealings. Note: Like many caste-based proverbs, this reflects historical social tensions or stereotypes and is used to describe situations where one should remain vigilant against potential deception or hidden 'thorns' in a situation.

This is a traditional Telugu proverb expressing a historical bias. It suggests that a leaf-cigar is unreliable because it can extinguish or burn unevenly at any moment, and metaphorically claims that a woman's mind is unpredictable or untrustworthy. It is used to caution someone against relying on things or people perceived as fickle.

This proverb warns against relying on verbal promises or superficial assurances regarding material gain or romantic interest. It suggests that people often make empty promises to please others or to get out of a situation, and one should only believe actions rather than words.

This expression suggests that a person who lacks warmth, humor, or the ability to smile is often hiding their true nature or may be cold-hearted. It is used as a cautionary piece of advice to be wary of individuals who remain stoic or expressionless, as their intentions may be difficult to gauge.

This proverb contrasts the behavior of an openly angry or short-tempered person with that of a sly, manipulative person. It suggests that while a hot-tempered person may be loud or harsh, their feelings are transparent and predictable. In contrast, a deceitful person (Nalimuchu) hides their true intentions and can cause much more harm from within. It is used to advise that honesty, even if blunt, is better than hidden malice.

This proverb is used to warn that replacing a bad person or situation might lead to an even worse alternative. It suggests that sometimes the current hardship, though difficult, is more manageable than the potential unknown trouble that follows. It is similar to the English expression 'out of the frying pan and into the fire'.

This proverb warns against trusting individuals from professions historically associated with manipulation, cruelty, or deception. In this context: the 'writer' (clerk/accountant) could manipulate records, the 'butcher' deals in death/slaughter, and the 'toddy-tapper' could dilute drinks or manipulate measurements. It is generally used to advise caution when dealing with people whose livelihoods depend on cleverness or cold-heartedness.

Put a miller, a weaver, and a tailor in a bag and shake them, the first that comes out will be a thief.

This traditional proverb suggests caution when dealing with three specific professions: the writer (clerk/accountant who can manipulate records), the cutter (butcher/barber who handles sharp tools), and the drawer (toddy tapper who climbs trees). It implies that their work involves inherent deceit or physical risk, making absolute trust dangerous.