నీతి కాని మాట రాతి వేటు.

niti kani mata rati vetu.

Translation

An unjust word is the throwing of a stone.

Meaning

This expression emphasizes the power and consequence of words. It suggests that saying something immoral, dishonest, or unjust can be as physically and emotionally damaging as being hit by a heavy stone. It is used to caution people to speak with integrity and think before they speak, as hurtful or unethical words leave lasting scars.

Related Phrases

There must be a blow for a blow, and a word for a word. One word brings on another. ( Italian. )

This expression emphasizes the importance of giving a fitting response or retaliation in kind. It suggests that one should be prepared to counter an action with an equal action or an argument with an equal argument, reflecting a sense of justice, tit-for-tat, or maintaining one's dignity in a conflict.

Can you go hunting by catching a mad dog?

This proverb is used to illustrate that you cannot achieve a successful or noble outcome by relying on incompetent, unreliable, or unstable people. Just as a rabid or mad dog is unpredictable and cannot be trained for the discipline of hunting, an unfit person cannot be trusted to perform a specific task effectively.

Though the word of Maryâda Râmanna fail, my blow will not fail. Maryâda Râmanna ( 'the respected Râmanna' ) was a famous minister, renowned for his judgment and the wisdom of his decisions.

This expression signifies an absolute determination or an unshakeable commitment to an action. It implies that while even a person known for supreme integrity (like the legendary judge Maryada Ramanna) might theoretically fail or falter, the speaker's resolve or the consequence of their action is inevitable and certain.

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.

Like the mortar going to the drum to complain about its woes

This expression is used when a person who is already suffering seeks help or sympathy from someone who is suffering even more. While a mortar (rolu) is hit on one side, a drum (maddela) is beaten on both sides, implying that the person being approached has more troubles than the one complaining.

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.

Daytime talk is a loss to work, nighttime talk is a loss to sleep.

This proverb emphasizes time management and the importance of focusing on the task at hand. It suggests that gossiping or idle chatter during the day hinders productivity, while excessive talking at night deprives one of necessary rest. It is used to advise someone to stop talking and focus on their responsibilities or sleep.

Joint words are words that do not fit.

This proverb highlights the difficulty of collective decision-making or joint ventures. It suggests that when multiple people are involved in a partnership or discussion, reaching a consensus is often impossible because conflicting opinions and interests prevent a single, coherent resolution from fitting everyone involved.

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.

Like finding a gemstone while searching for a small coin.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone finds something far more valuable or significant than what they were originally looking for. It represents unexpected good fortune or serendipity during a humble pursuit.