పండ్ల చెట్టు కింద ముండ్ల కంప ఉన్నట్టు

This proverb is used to describe a situation where something beneficial or pleasant is made inaccessible or difficult to enjoy due to an underlying nuisance or danger. It refers to a person or thing that possesses great value but is surrounded by unpleasant obstacles or negative associations.

This expression describes someone who is constantly grumbling, complaining, or being irritable. It refers to the idea that an old woman sitting under a thorny jujube tree would constantly complain as the thorns fall or prick her, symbolizing a person who finds reasons to be unhappy or critical in any situation.

This expression is used to describe a classic 'chicken and egg' dilemma. It refers to a situation or debate where it is impossible to determine which of two related things happened first or is the primary cause of the other.

A problem that cannot be solved. Ask which was born first, the hen or the egg. (Italian.)*

This rhetorical question is used to point out that one cannot expect a specific quality or result from a source that is fundamentally different. It highlights that every object or person has their own inherent nature, and it is foolish to expect something contrary to that nature.

This proverb highlights the fleeting nature of intense emotions and physical states. It suggests that the initial passion of a romantic attraction (valapu) often fades within two years, just as physical grime or stains (murugu) eventually wear off or are cleaned over time. It is used to caution against the assumption that temporary feelings or situations will remain unchanged forever.

This expression describes a situation where someone is unknowingly or helplessly living in extreme danger. Just as a frog under a snake's hood is oblivious to its imminent death, it refers to a person residing in a precarious position or under the shelter of an enemy who could destroy them at any moment.

This expression is used to signify that talented, successful, or helpful people are often the ones who face criticism, jealousy, or constant demands. Just as people throw stones at a tree only when it has fruit to offer, society often targets those who are productive or prominent.

This expression is used to describe a classic chicken-and-egg dilemma or a circular argument where it is impossible to determine which of two related things happened or existed first. It is often applied to situations involving infinite regress or complex causal loops.

This expression describes a situation where someone is subordinate to an individual who is themselves in a lowly or subservient position. It highlights an extreme lack of authority or a hierarchy of servitude, often used to mock someone who is at the absolute bottom of a social or organizational ladder.

This proverb highlights a traditional observation regarding maturity and knowledge. It suggests that by the age of thirty, a woman typically attains a level of worldly wisdom, patience, and household management skills that makes her as sharp and capable in her sphere as a three-year-old boy is in his peak stage of rapid learning, curiosity, and observation. It is often used to emphasize the intelligence and practical sense of women.