నీటిపై రాత

nitipai rata

Translation

Writing on water

Meaning

This expression refers to something that is temporary, unstable, or unreliable. Just as words written on the surface of water disappear instantly, it is used to describe promises that aren't kept, plans that have no foundation, or things that lack longevity.

Related Phrases

A dog used to being fed waited at the riverbank.

This proverb is used to describe a person who, having once enjoyed a benefit or easy gain at a certain place or from a certain task, keeps returning there or waiting expectantly for it to happen again. It highlights the tendency of people (or animals) to become habitual or persistent when they anticipate a reward based on past experience.

The word spoken with learning is the word of an expert.

This expression emphasizes that knowledge and skill bring weight to one's words. It suggests that when someone speaks after truly learning or mastering a subject, their words carry authority and wisdom, distinguishing them as a capable or clever person (Neravaadi).

Spoken words are worse than heard words

This expression highlights the power and potential danger of speech. While listening to something bad is passive, speaking ill of someone or spreading rumors is an active, more harmful deed. It serves as a reminder to be mindful of what one says, as spoken words can cause more damage than what one simply hears.

There is no substitute or remedy for a word that has crossed its limits.

This proverb emphasizes the permanence and impact of spoken words. Once someone says something hurtful or excessive (crossing the boundary of decency or patience), the damage is irreversible. It is used to advise people to think before they speak and to maintain self-control in conversation.

A word written on water.

This expression refers to something that is temporary, unreliable, or lacks permanence. Just as writing on the surface of water disappears instantly, this phrase is used to describe promises that are easily broken or plans that have no solid foundation.

Ramayana was written by a Boya, Mahabharata was written by a Koya.

This proverb is used to highlight that greatness and knowledge are not the birthright of any specific caste or social status. Valmiki (who wrote the Ramayana) was from the Boya community, and Vyasa (who wrote the Mahabharata) was the son of a fisherwoman. It serves as an example of social equality in spiritual and intellectual achievement.

Lies are better than backbiting.

This expression is used to suggest that it is better to hear something blunt or even incorrect rather than being given false promises or misleading information that is never fulfilled. It emphasizes the frustration of broken commitments.

A word spoken skillfully is a word that earns applause.

This proverb highlights the importance of eloquence and communication skills. It suggests that if one knows how to articulate a thought effectively and persuasively, it will always receive appreciation and recognition.

An unjust word is the throwing of a stone.

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.

One is a connoisseur of boasting, another is a connoisseur of experience, and yet another is a connoisseur of embracing.

This expression categorizes people into three types based on how they derive pleasure or show interest: those who merely talk or boast about things (Arjata), those who actually experience and enjoy the reality (Anubhava), and those who seek physical or superficial closeness (Alingana). It is used to describe different temperaments and depths of character in human relationships or pursuits.