నెమలిని చూచి నక్క నాట్యమాడినట్లు

This expression is used to describe a cunning or deceptive person who tries to distract others with religious or righteous appearances while hiding their true intentions. It refers to someone who uses superficial symbols of piety to cover up their deceitful nature, often used when someone is being hypocritically holy.

This proverb is used to describe someone who foolishly tries to imitate others who are naturally superior or more capable, often causing harm to themselves in the process. It highlights the vanity of blind imitation without having the inherent strength or qualities of the person being mimicked.

The reference is to ordinary person trying to pretend that he is a great man by imitating mere external features and mannerism of a great person. By such efforts one only makes a fool of oneself.

This proverb is used to describe a person who foolishly tries to imitate someone superior or more capable than themselves, often resulting in self-harm or ridicule. It highlights the folly of blind imitation without having the inherent nature or strength of the person being copied.

This proverb suggests that the character and qualities of a person are often inherited or influenced by their upbringing and ancestry. It is commonly used in the context of marriage or forming long-term alliances, implying that observing the parents (background) provides a reliable preview of the individual's nature.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone pretends to have a problem or disability to avoid work or a specific task. Historically, barbers were also used for minor veterinary tasks like branding or treating cattle; hence, the ox pretends to be lame to escape the discomfort of the treatment or the labor expected afterward.

This proverb describes someone who tries to imitate others who are more naturally talented, beautiful, or superior, often appearing foolish in the process. It is used when a person tries to copy someone's external appearance or status without having the actual underlying qualities or character.

This proverb is used to describe someone who foolishly tries to imitate others who are naturally superior or more capable, often causing harm to themselves in the process. It highlights the vanity and folly of blind imitation without having the inherent strength or status of the person being mimicked.

This proverb describes a person who foolishly tries to imitate someone far superior in status, strength, or talent, only to end up hurting themselves or looking ridiculous. It highlights the folly of blind imitation without having the actual capability or nature of the person being copied.

This expression refers to judging the value or quality of something based on superficial or external features rather than its actual worth. It originates from the practice of trying to estimate a cow's age or value solely by its horns instead of examining its health and teeth. It is used when someone makes a hasty decision based on outward appearances.