తీపుల మాటలకు వీపులు గుంజుతవి.

This expression is used to describe a person who is naturally cruel or predatory, implying that one cannot expect kindness or mercy from someone whose basic nature is to cause harm. Just as a tiger will not refrain from eating meat, a wicked person will not refrain from their bad habits.

This proverb describes human nature where people pray fervently and make many promises to God or others when they are in trouble, but completely forget those promises once they become wealthy or their problems are solved. It is used to criticize ungratefulness or fair-weather devotion.

This proverb is used to describe people who lack substance or capability but make a lot of noise or boast excessively. Similar to the English idiom 'Empty vessels make the most noise', it suggests that those who talk the most or show off frequently are often the ones who achieve or contribute the least.

This expression highlights the power and potential danger of speech. While listening to something bad is passive, speaking ill of someone or spreading rumors is an active, more harmful deed. It serves as a reminder to be mindful of what one says, as spoken words can cause more damage than what one simply hears.

This proverb highlights the belief that humans can be ungrateful or deceitful despite being helped. It originates from a folktale where a crocodile helps a man, but the man tries to harm it later. It is used to describe situations where someone displays extreme ingratitude or when dealing with a person whose word cannot be trusted.

This proverb warns against being easily deceived by excessively sweet words or flattering behavior. It suggests that someone who is overly nice or charming may have hidden motives or may be hiding a bitter truth behind their 'sweet' exterior.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where one person is clever or troublesome, but their close associate or relative is even more cunning or difficult to deal with. It highlights a hierarchy of shrewdness or mischief within a group.

This proverb describes someone who is very vocal, boastful, or makes grand promises (Malli) but is completely absent or disappears when it comes time to actually do the work (Elli). It is used to criticize people who talk a lot but never follow through with action.

This expression is used to describe excessive delays that render a result useless or irrelevant. It suggests that if a process takes too long, the original excitement, necessity, or even the ability to react (like being speechless from exhaustion or hunger) disappears by the time the goal is reached.

This proverb is an advice on frugality and self-reliance. It suggests that one should be content with a simple meal (represented by licking the four fingers used for eating) and then tighten one's belt (tucking the waist) to get back to work. It emphasizes living within one's means and the importance of hard work over indulgence.