పాలలో పడ్డ బల్లివలె

palalo padda ballivale

Translation

Like a lizard that fell into milk

Meaning

This expression describes a situation where a single unpleasant element or unwanted person ruins an otherwise pure, good, or perfect situation. Just as a lizard falling into milk makes the entire container of milk unfit for consumption, this phrase is used when someone's presence or a specific event creates a sense of disgust or spoils the harmony of a gathering.

Related Phrases

The lizard which tells the fortunes of all fell itself into the tub of rice-washings. The sound of the lizard is believed to be auspicious or ominous according to the quarter from whence it is heard, the hour, &c. 1

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone who offers advice or solutions to everyone else's problems fails to manage or foresee their own misfortune. It highlights the irony of a person who acts as a guide or expert but cannot help themselves when they fall into trouble.

Like a mouse that fell into a pot of rice-wash (swill).

This expression describes a person who is stuck in a difficult or suffocating situation with no way out. Just as a mouse struggles helplessly when it falls into a deep pot of liquid, it refers to someone being trapped in a messy problem or a dilemma where their efforts to escape only lead to further exhaustion.

Like a lion fallen into a cage

This expression is used to describe a powerful, influential, or highly capable person who has become helpless, trapped, or restricted due to circumstances beyond their control. It signifies frustrated strength and the agony of being unable to act despite having great potential.

The fruit slipped, and fell into the milk.

This expression is used to describe a situation where something good happens unexpectedly or a fortunate event occurs that makes a situation even better. It is similar to the English idiom 'The icing on the cake' or 'A stroke of luck.'

Happy go lucky.

Like a fruit slipping and falling into milk

This expression is used to describe a situation where something good happens unexpectedly, or when an already favorable situation becomes even better. It signifies a stroke of great luck or a perfect coincidence.

Sweet rice in a dream, rice water in reality.

This proverb describes a situation where a person has grand aspirations or fantasies but lives in poverty or hardship. It is used to highlight the stark contrast between one's desires/dreams and their actual meager circumstances.

Like flies caught in a thorny bush

This expression is used to describe a situation where people are hopelessly trapped or stuck in a difficult problem with no easy way to escape. Just as flies get their wings snagged in thorny branches and struggle to get out, it signifies being entangled in a complex or messy predicament.

Like a cat with a burnt foot

This expression is used to describe someone who is extremely restless, anxious, or unable to stay in one place. Just as a cat with a burnt paw would jump around in distress, it refers to a person moving about aimlessly or frantically due to tension or urgency.

When told the child fell into the well, he said he would come after eating his leftovers.

This proverb describes someone who is extremely lazy, indifferent, or lacks a sense of urgency even in life-threatening or critical situations. It is used to criticize people who prioritize trivial personal comforts over immediate, serious responsibilities.

Like a pig in a mud pit

This expression is used to describe someone who is deeply wallowing in a bad situation, laziness, or a messy environment with no intention of improving or leaving. It signifies being comfortably stuck in filth or a degraded state.