సాగితే సాగించుకోమన్నారు, జారితే పడమన్నారు.

sagite saginchukomannaru, jarite padamannaru.

Translation

If it stretches, they say to stretch it; if it slips, they say to fall.

Meaning

This expression refers to fair-weather friends or opportunistic people who do not offer genuine help. It describes a situation where people encourage you as long as things are going well (keep stretching), but as soon as you stumble or face a setback (slip), they indifferently tell you to just fall down instead of helping you up.

Related Phrases

If it stretches, one should leave it; if one slips, one should fall.

This proverb advises adaptability and acceptance of circumstances. It suggests that if something can be extended or managed, do so; but if a situation becomes uncontrollable or a failure is inevitable (like slipping), one should accept the outcome rather than struggling pointlessly. It is often used to describe going with the flow or being practical about one's limitations.

They said to fall if you slip, but did they say to fall if you move?

This expression is used to mock someone who makes excuses for their failures or mistakes. It highlights the difference between an accidental mishap (slipping) and a deliberate or avoidable action (moving/shifting), suggesting that while some mistakes are inevitable, one shouldn't intentionally fail or blame circumstances for their own lack of effort.

If a simple hint/sign is enough to move things forward, why the need for a marriage?

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone achieves their goal or gets what they want through shortcuts or informal hints, rendering official or traditional procedures (like a formal wedding) unnecessary. It reflects the idea that if the desired result is obtained easily, the formal effort or expense is often bypassed.

If you can, you must give ; if you slip, you must fall.

This proverb advises adaptability and presence of mind based on the situation. It suggests that if things are going your way (stretching), you should make the most of it, but if a failure or slip-up is inevitable, one should accept it and fall gracefully rather than struggling fruitlessly. It is used to describe going with the flow of circumstances.

They said to start chopping from the other end.

This expression is used when someone is advised to tackle a problem or complete a task by starting from the end and working backward to the beginning, or to approach a complex situation from the simplest or most peripheral parts first to reach the core. It is often used in the context of strategy or logical problem-solving.

If successful, they claim to be Pakanati; if not, they remain Motati.

This proverb describes people who change their identity, status, or affiliations based on their success or convenience. It highlights opportunism, where individuals associate themselves with a more prestigious group (Pakanati) when they are doing well, but revert to their original or humbler roots (Motati) when things are not going their way. It is used to critique social climbing or inconsistent behavior.

Even if your foot slips, your mouth should not slip.

This proverb emphasizes the permanence of spoken words. While a physical fall (slipping your foot) causes temporary injury that can heal, a slip of the tongue (speaking thoughtlessly or hurtful words) can cause irreparable damage to relationships and reputation. It serves as a warning to think carefully before speaking.

If an illicit affair works out well, why bother with marriage?

This proverb is used to sarcastically remark that if one can get everything they want through shortcuts or unauthorized means, they will feel no need to follow traditional rules or responsibilities. It highlights the tendency of people to avoid formal commitments when they can reap benefits without them.

If it moves, it is a cart; if it doesn't, it is stubborn.

This proverb is used to describe a situation or a machine that is unreliable or inconsistent. It refers to something that works perfectly when it wants to but becomes completely uncooperative or stationary when it faces a hurdle. It is often applied to old vehicles, unpredictable people, or projects that lack a steady momentum.

They said to work hard and then enjoy the happiness

This expression emphasizes the value of hard work as a prerequisite for success and comfort. It is used to motivate someone to put in effort now so they can reap the rewards and live peacefully later in life. It reflects the philosophy that true happiness is earned through diligence.