నీలి మాటలు, గాలి మూటలు

nili matalu, gali mutalu

Translation

Blue words, bundles of air

Meaning

This expression refers to deceptive talk or empty promises that have no substance. 'Blue words' implies deceitful or fraudulent speech, while 'bundles of air' represents something that appears significant but is actually empty and worthless. It is used to describe someone who makes tall claims or tells lies that cannot be fulfilled.

Related Phrases

Poisonous words coated with honey

This expression describes someone who uses sweet, flattering, or pleasant language to hide their malicious intentions or harmful nature. It is used to warn others about deceitful people who act friendly on the surface while harboring ill will.

Words are good, but deeds are bad

This expression describes hypocrisy or a situation where someone talks very politely or makes grand promises but acts in a harmful or contrary manner. It is used to describe people whose actions do not match their virtuous words.

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.

Building castles in the air

This expression refers to creating unrealistic plans or daydreams that have no solid foundation. It is used to describe someone who is being impractical or overly idealistic about the future without taking any concrete action.

She talks like a mother, but she feeds me like a step mother.

This expression describes a person who speaks very kindly and affectionately but fails to provide any actual help or substance. It is used to point out the hypocrisy of someone whose actions do not match their sweet words, particularly in contexts of hospitality or generosity.

Said of a step mother.

Listening to hearsay leads to ruin, while honest words can be sharp.

This expression warns that acting on gossip or others' manipulative words causes harm. Conversely, sincere or truthful advice may feel blunt or 'sharp' like a spice, but it is ultimately beneficial. It is used to advise someone to be wary of rumors and appreciate honest criticism.

Once the words are gone, bundles of wealth are of no use.

This proverb emphasizes that once a person has lost their ability to speak or has passed away, material wealth becomes meaningless. It is often used to highlight that good communication and relationships are more valuable than riches, or to suggest that some things cannot be fixed with money once the opportunity for dialogue is lost.

One can buy bundles with words.

This expression refers to someone who is highly persuasive or a smooth talker. It describes a person who can achieve great things or acquire assets just by using their convincing speech and eloquence, without necessarily having the physical means or money at that moment.

Talking in the day time spoils one's business ; talking in the night time spoils one's sleep.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of time management and focus. It suggests that gossiping or talking excessively during the day hinders productivity, while doing the same at night disturbs necessary rest. It is used to advise someone to stop talking and get back to their responsibilities or to sleep.

A courtesan's word is like a bundle found in a dream.

This proverb implies that promises or words spoken by someone who is primarily driven by self-interest or monetary gain (historically referring to courtesans) are unreliable and illusory. Just as a bundle of wealth found in a dream disappears upon waking, such promises have no value in reality.