నిలకడ లేనివాని మాట నీళ్లమూట

nilakada lenivani mata nillamuta

Translation

The word of an unstable man is a bundle of water.

Meaning

This expression refers to someone who lacks consistency or reliability in their character. Just as it is impossible to tie water in a bundle, it is impossible to hold a fickle person to their promises. It is used to caution against trusting the words of those who frequently change their minds or lack integrity.

Notes

A fool's speech is a bubble of air.

Related Phrases

An unfit person pairs with a person who has nothing.

This proverb describes the alliance of two individuals who are both lacking in some way—either in character, resources, or capability. It is used to mock an association where neither party can help the other, or to point out that people with negative traits often find common ground with those who have nothing to lose.

The will of masters and the shadow of trees are inconsistent.

This proverb highlights the instability and unpredictability of powerful people (lords/masters) and nature. Just as the shade of a tree moves as the sun changes position, the favors or moods of those in power are never constant and cannot be relied upon for long-term security.

A woman’s word, a bundle of water. A woman's mind and winter wind change oft.

This is a traditional proverb used to suggest that a promise or statement made by a woman is unstable, unreliable, or impossible to hold onto, much like trying to tie water into a bundle. It is typically used to express skepticism regarding commitments or to highlight perceived inconsistency.

A bundle of water and a deceiver's word are of the same kind.

This proverb highlights the unreliability of a dishonest person's promises. Just as it is impossible to bind or carry water in a bundle (as it will eventually leak or slip away), a deceiver's words have no substance and cannot be trusted to hold true.

Fondling without a child, a flood without rain.

This proverb is used to describe something that is meaningless, artificial, or lacks a foundation. Just as a flood cannot exist without rain and kissing has no purpose without a child (in a parental context), an action or situation without its core essence or cause is considered hollow or futile.

A woman's word and a bundle in the water are supposedly the same.

This is a traditional proverb used to suggest that a particular promise or statement is unreliable or lacks stability, much like how a bundle of goods would dissolve or float away in moving water. It is typically used to remark on perceived inconsistency or the fleeting nature of a commitment.

A word without a proverb is like a house without a feast.

This expression highlights the cultural importance of proverbs in Telugu language and conversation. Just as a home feels empty and unwelcoming without hospitality or a meal for guests, a speech or conversation lacks depth, wisdom, and flavor if it doesn't incorporate proverbs.

Truth is known upon settling down

This expression means that the truth will eventually reveal itself over time. It is used to suggest that one should be patient when facing false accusations or confusion, as time and stability will eventually bring the facts to light.

Words that are barely formed are like a bundle of gold coins.

This expression is used to describe the broken or half-formed speech of young children. Just as a bundle of gold (varahalu) is precious, the innocent and stuttering attempts of a child trying to talk are considered delightful, sweet, and invaluable to hear.

An unstable word is like a bundle of water.

This proverb is used to describe a person who does not stick to their word or lacks consistency in their promises. Just as it is impossible to pack or carry water in a bundle, the promises of an inconsistent person have no substance and cannot be relied upon.