నిప్పుకు చెదలు పట్టింది - నల్లికి తేలు కుట్టింది.

nippuku chedalu pattindi - nalliki telu kuttindi.

Translation

Termites infested the fire - a scorpion stung the bedbug.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe highly improbable, impossible, or absurd situations. It highlights events that defy logic, as termites cannot survive in fire and a tiny bedbug being stung by a scorpion is a comical exaggeration of misfortune or weirdness.

Related Phrases

Like a thief, stung by a scorpion.

This refers to some criminal who cannot even complain. If a person is doing something criminal, he cannot complain against a natural problem/discomfort he has to face. The moral is that it is better not to commit blunders one may find it difficult to get out of them.

Like a robber stung by a scorpion. A man does not cry out when he suffers from his own folly.

This expression describes a situation where someone is suffering or facing a problem but cannot complain or cry out for help because doing so would reveal their own wrongdoings or secrets. Just as a thief cannot scream when stung by a scorpion while stealing for fear of getting caught, it refers to a state of silent, helpless suffering.

Like a monkey bitten by a scorpion

This expression is used to describe a person who is naturally restless or mischievous, but becomes even more hyperactive, erratic, or uncontrollable due to a specific provocation or situation. It highlights a state of extreme agitation added to an already unstable personality.

What the body does and what the mind does will result in good.

This expression reflects a philosophical or fatalistic outlook, suggesting that whatever happens—whether driven by physical actions or mental intentions—is ultimately for the best or part of a larger destiny. It is often used to provide consolation during unexpected outcomes or to emphasize that things work out for the better in the long run.

Food without a second helping is like scavenger's food; food without a master is like a ghost's food.

This traditional proverb emphasizes the cultural importance of hospitality and social structure. It suggests that a meal where one cannot ask for or receive a second serving (maaru) is considered poor or unfulfilling, while a meal eaten without a host or proper supervision (dora) is chaotic or unlucky, like food consumed by spirits.

Like a scorpion stinging a jester. No one believes it. One may cry " Wolf !" too often. క్ష.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a person who is usually funny or non-serious is genuinely suffering or in trouble, but others mistake it for a joke or part of an act. It refers to a tragedy that is perceived as comedy by observers, leading to a lack of sympathy or help when it is actually needed.

A scorpion under a shoe. A ruffian under restraint.

This expression refers to a constant, imminent, and dangerous threat that is extremely close at hand. It is used to describe a situation or a person that causes perpetual anxiety because they can cause harm at any moment, yet they are currently suppressed or nearby.

Like paying money to get stung by a scorpion.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone knowingly or unknowingly spends their resources (money, time, or effort) only to end up with trouble or self-inflicted harm. It is used when a person's own actions or investments lead to a negative outcome for themselves.

Human's food - Buffalo's work, Devil's food - Beast's work

This expression is used to describe someone who eats very little but works excessively hard, or conversely, someone who eats like a glutton but does no work. It highlights the mismatch between consumption and labor.

Will white ants attack fire?

This expression is used to state that someone with a pure, strong, or impeccable character cannot be corrupted or harmed by petty rumors or evil influences. Just as termites can destroy wood but are instantly consumed by fire, a person of integrity remains unaffected by baseless accusations.