పాతది పనికిరాదు, కొత్తది కొరగాదు

This expression describes a state of stagnation or lack of progress. It is used to mock someone who is unable to adapt to new changes or learn new skills, while also failing to move on from or effectively use their existing knowledge. It highlights a situation where someone is stuck in limbo, making no advancement.

This proverb is used to describe things that are temporary or unreliable. Palm wood burns very quickly and turns to ash before it can be carried home for use, and a toddy tapper's wife is often busy helping her husband in the fields or with sales, making her unavailable for other chores. It signifies that certain efforts are futile because the nature of the object or person is inherently unsuitable for the desired outcome.

This proverb lists three things that fail to serve their intended purpose. It emphasizes that utility and harmony are essential in relationships and tools. If a lamp doesn't provide light, a spouse doesn't provide companionship, or a child is constantly unruly, they cannot fulfill their roles effectively.

This proverb is used to emphasize that external appearances or imitations cannot replace the value or dignity of the original. Just as brass may shine like gold but lacks its intrinsic worth, someone pretending to be of high character or status without having the actual virtues will eventually be revealed. It is often used to remind people to stay in touch with reality and not be fooled by superficial substitutes.

This proverb lists things that fail to fulfill their primary purpose. A lamp is meant to give light; if it is dim, it is useless. A spouse is meant for loyalty; if unfaithful, the relationship is broken. A child is meant to be held with joy; if they cry incessantly, it becomes a burden. It is used to describe people or things that are technically present but fail to provide the intended comfort or utility.

* Vultus est index animi. 39

This proverb highlights how people treat possessions differently based on their age. New things are handled with extreme care and kept pristine (like a clean pond), but as they get older, they are used roughly or neglected (like a pond used for washing dirty clothes). It is used to describe the waning enthusiasm or care for something over time.

This proverb advises caution in social and financial dealings. If you make a promise to a poor person and fail to keep it, their despair may lead to bitterness or social shame for you. Conversely, if you give a wealthy or powerful person space (or a foothold in your affairs/property), they may use their influence to eventually usurp or dominate you.

This proverb is used to describe a situation of extreme inefficiency or futility. It suggests that just as meager wages are insufficient to provide even a basic meal, a person with a low or stubborn character (leki) is impossible to manage or reform. It is often used to remark on someone who is both unproductive and unmanageable.

This proverb is used to suggest that certain tasks require maturity, experience, and patience rather than just youthful energy or haste. Just as farming needs seasoned knowledge to get a good harvest, important life goals cannot be achieved through impulsive actions or lack of experience. It emphasizes the value of wisdom over raw enthusiasm.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone endures some hardship, insult, or mistreatment because they received a significant benefit or compensation in return. It highlights a trade-off where the material gain outweighs the temporary suffering or loss of dignity.