ప్రాణం పోయినా మానం దక్కించుకోవాలి

This expression describes a critical dilemma or a 'catch-22' situation where every available option leads to a negative outcome. It is traditionally used in contexts like a medical emergency involving a modest person, or any situation where one must choose between a loss of dignity and a loss of life/safety.

This expression emphasizes the supreme value of dignity and self-respect over physical life. It is used to convey that for a person of principles, living with disgrace or humiliation is worse than death.

Take away my good name, and take away my life. Either live or die wi' honour.

This expression is used sarcastically or ironically when someone tries to cover up their obvious mistakes or bad behavior by pretending to be concerned about their reputation. It originates from a folk story where a daughter-in-law behaves poorly and then asks if she deserves the bad name she is getting, highlighting hypocrisy.

Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

This proverb emphasizes the reciprocal nature of relationships and fairness. It means that if you want a share in someone's prosperity or inheritance (property), you must also be willing to stand by them and provide support when they are in trouble or facing a crisis.

This expression emphasizes the extreme importance of integrity and keeping one's promises. In traditional contexts, it compares the loss of a person's reputation or honor (symbolized by broken promises) to the irreversible loss of virtue, suggesting that living without honor or credibility is a heavy burden.

This expression is used to describe habits, relationships, or problems that are easy to start or acquire, but extremely difficult to escape or resolve. It is often used as a warning against picking up bad habits or entering into complicated commitments.

This expression emphasizes that self-respect and dignity are more valuable than life itself. It is used to suggest that living a life of disgrace or shame is meaningless and that one should prioritize their reputation over survival.

This proverb emphasizes that one's dignity and honor are far more important than physical existence. It is used to inspire integrity and courage, suggesting that it is better to die with honor than to live in disgrace or shame.

This expression emphasizes that one's dignity, honor, and self-respect are more valuable than life itself. It is used to encourage standing by one's principles or integrity, even in the face of extreme danger or death.

This expression is used when someone's attempt to be polite, formal, or overly respectful towards someone who doesn't deserve it results in them being insulted or humiliated. It warns that being too submissive or courteous in the wrong situation can lead to a loss of self-respect.