పక్కలో కత్తి

This expression describes a hidden danger or a constant threat from someone who is very close or intimate. It is typically used to refer to a traitor, a secret enemy within one's own circle, or a persistent problem that causes anxiety because it is impossible to ignore.

This expression is used to describe something that is beautiful or attractive but nonetheless harmful or dangerous. Just because a knife is made of gold, it doesn't mean it won't cut; it implies that one should not be deceived by outward elegance when the inherent nature is destructive.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone adds to another person's existing pain or misery. Just as scratching a sore spot (caused by the heavy wooden yoke on an ox's neck) with a sharp knife would cause excruciating pain instead of relief, this phrase refers to actions that worsen an already difficult or hurtful situation.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone seeks comfort, relief, or help from a trusted person, but instead of finding rest, they are pushed into a more difficult, uncomfortable, or awkward situation. It highlights the irony of getting additional trouble instead of the expected solace.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone's words or actions are extremely painful, stinging, or cause intense distress. Just as lying on hot iron bars would be agonizing, this metaphor highlights the severity of an insult, betrayal, or a harsh truth that makes a person feel restless and deeply hurt.

This expression is used to describe a woman who is already taking care of a young child while being pregnant with another. It highlights the challenging situation of a mother handling consecutive pregnancies or very young children with a very small age gap.

This proverb describes a gradual but certain downfall or the loss of one's livelihood and stability. It illustrates a step-by-step decline in prosperity where a person's situation goes from bad to worse, eventually ending in total ruin or nothingness (ashes). It is used to caution against mismanagement or to describe the unfortunate decay of a family's wealth.

This expression describes items or individuals that are in their most effective or dangerous state. Just as a knife is most useful when sharpened (tari), a person (historically used in the context of a captive woman or 'kutthi' meaning a young woman/slave) is most vulnerable or completely under someone's control. In modern usage, it highlights the peak state of readiness or the absolute influence one holds over something.

This proverb describes a hypocritical person who speaks very sweetly and kindly (like jaggery) but harbors harmful or malicious intentions (like sharp scissors) in their heart. It is used to warn others about people who are outwardly pleasant but inwardly deceitful.

This proverb describes the difficult relationships a woman may face in her marital home. It suggests that while the mother-in-law constantly nags or demands like a moneylender (mitti), the sister-in-law (specifically the husband's brother's wife) can be sharp, cutting, or hostile like a knife. It is used to express the domestic challenges and lack of peace in a joint family setting.