ఉప్పుకు నిప్పు వలె

This expression describes a person who is extremely absent-minded, confused, or lacks common sense. It specifically refers to situations where someone is sent to perform a simple task (like getting salt) but ends up doing something entirely different or counterproductive (like bringing burning coals) because they are not focused or have 'mud on their brain'.

This expression is used to state that a person of high integrity, purity, or strength cannot be corrupted or harmed by petty accusations or external evils. Just as termites can destroy wood but are instantly consumed by fire, true virtue remains untouched by malice.

This expression is used to describe a person with immense hidden talent, power, or potential that is currently obscured or suppressed by circumstances. It implies that while the energy is currently invisible or dormant, it remains potent and can flare up at any moment.

This expression is used to describe a person whose immense talent, power, or intense emotion is currently hidden or suppressed but has the potential to flare up at any moment. It signifies latent strength or a hidden genius that isn't obvious to an observer at first glance.

This proverb is used to say that an honest or virtuous person does not fear scrutiny, tests, or criticism. Just as pure gold is not damaged by fire and instead proves its purity, a person with integrity remains unshaken when faced with trials or investigations.

This expression is used to describe a situation where the maintenance or incidental costs of an item far exceed the actual value of the item itself. It highlights the irony of spending more on accessories or upkeep than on the primary object.

This expression is used to describe a situation where, despite expectations of change or improvement, someone remains in the same poor or stagnant condition. It signifies that some people's fate or routine never changes regardless of the circumstances.

Nippati is a kind of damper.

This expression is used to describe someone who gets extremely irritated, flares up in anger, or reacts with instant agitation. Just as salt crackles and pops loudly when thrown into a fire, it refers to a person's explosive or sharp temper in response to a situation.

This expression is used to describe a situation where an already intense emotion or conflict is further escalated or fueled by an additional factor. Similar to the English idiom 'adding fuel to the fire,' it signifies making a bad situation worse or making an existing anger even more explosive.

This expression is used to describe an extreme enmity or a state of constant conflict between two people. When salt is thrown into a fire, it crackles and pops aggressively; similarly, this phrase implies that the two individuals mentioned cannot be together without a clash or intense friction.