తన నీడ తానే తొక్కుకున్నట్లు

tana nida tane tokkukunnatlu

Translation

Like stepping on one's own shadow.

Meaning

This expression describes a futile or impossible task. Just as it is impossible for a person to actually step on the head of their own shadow (as the shadow moves with them), it refers to actions that are self-defeating, redundant, or trying to achieve something that is inherently unachievable due to one's own nature or presence.

Related Phrases

Like an elephant pouring sand on its own head

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone brings trouble upon themselves or ruins their own reputation through their own foolish actions, despite having power or status. Just as an elephant takes a bath and immediately throws dust on itself, it refers to self-destructive behavior.

As if one is bowing down to their own feet.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone is extremely conceited, self-admiring, or overly proud of their own actions and intelligence. It highlights the irony of self-veneration or thinking too highly of oneself to the point of absurdity.

A man's shadow remains with himself.

This expression signifies that an individual's character, past actions, or inherent nature will always accompany them, regardless of where they go or how they try to hide. It is often used to describe consequences or traits that are inseparable from a person.

The fruits of a man's actions go with him whether good or evil.

Like hanging a life that was staying still.

This expression is used when someone unnecessarily invites trouble or complicates a peaceful situation by taking an uncalled-for action. It describes the act of creating a problem where none existed before.

Like bringing the very ropes that will be used to tie oneself up.

This proverb describes a situation where a person's own actions, decisions, or words inadvertently lead to their own downfall, trouble, or restriction. It is used when someone creates the very tools or circumstances that others eventually use against them.

One's own shadow stays along with them

This expression is used to signify that certain things, like one's past actions, character, or consequences, are inseparable from an individual. It often implies that one cannot escape their own identity or the results of their deeds.

Like digging and pushing it onto oneself.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone unnecessarily creates a problem for themselves through their own actions or meddling. It is similar to 'digging one's own grave' or bringing avoidable trouble upon one's own head.

Tucking the tail between the legs.

This expression is used to describe someone who retreats in fear, loses courage, or admits defeat after initially acting bold or aggressive. It is similar to the English idiom 'to turn tail' or 'to run away with one's tail between one's legs.'

If one loses their own shadow, their luster/glory diminishes by one degree.

This expression emphasizes that a person's dignity, status, or 'glow' is intrinsically linked to their presence and self-reliance. It suggests that when one loses their own identity or support system, their overall value or reputation in the eyes of society decreases.

Like bringing the very ropes that will be used to tie oneself up.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone's own actions, decisions, or words lead to their own downfall or trouble. It is similar to the English idioms 'digging one's own grave' or 'being the architect of one's own misfortune.'