నూరు భక్షణములున్నా నోటి కబ్దినంతే

nuru bhakshanamulunna noti kabdinante

Translation

Even if there are a hundred delicacies, you only get what reaches your mouth.

Meaning

This proverb highlights the difference between potential wealth or opportunities and what is actually attainable or possessed. It is used to express that no matter how much is available in theory, only what is practically available for use or consumption matters at the moment.

Related Phrases

If you have money (Lacha), you have ten million (Koti) good qualities.

This proverb highlights the societal tendency to overlook the flaws of a wealthy person and attribute great qualities to them solely because of their riches. It implies that wealth can mask many shortcomings and command respect regardless of a person's true character.

For Lakshmayya who eats ten sweets, is one sweet a matter of concern?

This proverb is used to describe a person who handles large challenges or massive tasks effortlessly, implying that a minor version of that task is trivial for them. It plays on the name 'Lakshmayya' and the word 'Lakshyam' (target/concern). It is similar to saying 'A person used to dealing with thousands won't blink at a single rupee.'

Like a woman obtained by a eunuch.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone possesses something valuable or beautiful but lacks the capacity, skill, or ability to utilize or enjoy it. It highlights the futility of a resource being in the wrong hands.

When sacred grain was given to a luckless fellow, he went away and ate it up (instead of placing it on his head). The term Avalakshana is applied to a man who bears unlucky marks on his person, or whose manners are inauspicious.

This proverb is used to describe a person who lacks basic sense, culture, or awareness of traditions. Akshatalu (sacred rice) are meant to be showered on the head for blessings, not eaten. It highlights how a foolish or ill-mannered person ruins a solemn or sacred gesture by acting out of ignorance or greed.

Like eating bran with a mouth that just tasted sugar.

This expression describes a situation where someone who is used to high quality, luxury, or praise suddenly experiences something inferior, unpleasant, or insulting. It captures the sharp contrast and disappointment felt when moving from a superior experience to a mediocre or degrading one.

Employment makes the man ; he is a luckless fellow if he lose it.

While the original proverb 'Udyogam Purusha Lakshanam' emphasizes that work/effort defines a person's character and dignity, this extended humorous or sarcastic version suggests that losing one's job or being unemployed is seen as a flaw or a social stigma. It is often used to highlight the societal pressure regarding employment and financial stability.

When there is work in the hand, the tongue should be in the mouth.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of silence and focus while working. It suggests that one should not waste time talking or gossiping when there is a task to be completed, as excessive talking can lead to distractions or mistakes.

If Lakshanam is neglected it becomes Avalakshanam.

This expression means that a small flaw or a lapse in character can turn a virtue into a vice. It is used to caution people that maintaining one's good reputation or quality requires consistency, as even a minor deviation can lead to being perceived negatively.

There is a pun here on the word Lakshanam which as a noun signifies the ' rules of classic composition,' and as an adjective ' handsome.'—Ava- lakshanam means ' ugly,' ' deformed.'

Like devouring the one who does not protect.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone who is expected to provide help or protection instead causes harm or destruction. It refers to a betrayal of trust or a scenario where a person's lack of support leads to an even more predatory or damaging outcome.

Are you to devour the man who has protected you ?

This expression is used to convey a sense of loyalty and gratitude. It highlights that one should never harm or betray their benefactor or savior. It is often used to show a commitment to integrity even when facing temptation.

Save a thief from the gallows, and he will be the first to cut your throat.