వంట ఇంటిలో చిలుకకొయ్య మినహాయింపు

vanta intilo chilukakoyya minahayimpu

Translation

Except for the wall-peg in the kitchen.

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone claims to have lost everything or is willing to give away everything, but sarcastically points out that even the smallest, most insignificant item (like a wooden peg on the wall) is being accounted for. It is often used to mock someone's pretend generosity or to highlight extreme poverty/loss where literally nothing remains.

Related Phrases

If planted, it's a drumstick stick; if removed, it's a sandalwood (hardwood) stick.

This proverb is used to describe a person who is extremely stubborn, difficult to handle, or double-tongued. It implies that a person may seem soft and compliant like a drumstick tree (which breaks easily) when they want something, but becomes as hard and unyielding as 'Chandra' wood (a very tough wood) when they are challenged or when they have the upper hand. It highlights the unpredictable or deceptive nature of a person's temperament.

The parrot of a particular nest will speak the language of that nest.

This proverb means that people's behavior, thoughts, and speech are heavily influenced by the environment or company they grow up in. It is used to describe how a person's background or upbringing dictates their character and actions.

A parrot in its nest

This expression is often used as a metaphor for the human soul residing within the body. It can also describe a person who is safe, protected, or homebound, similar to a parrot tucked away in its dwelling.

What is pleasant to the eye is good for the stomach.

This expression suggests that the appearance or presentation of food significantly influences one's appetite and satisfaction. It is used to emphasize that when something looks appealing, it is more likely to be enjoyed or accepted. In a broader sense, it can also refer to how first impressions affect overall judgment.

Like handing over the house parrot to a hunter.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone hands over a beloved or vulnerable person/thing to someone who is naturally their enemy or someone who will cause them harm. It signifies an act of betrayal or extreme foolishness where one fails to protect what is dear.

The attack of rats even before entering the house.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where problems or obstacles arise even before a task or project has officially begun. It highlights premature trouble or facing difficulties at the very inception of an endeavor.

A measure in the mud, a heap in the house.

This is a traditional agricultural saying referring to the high yield of crops. It means that even a small amount of seed sown in the soil (mud) can result in a massive harvest stored at home. It is used to describe investments or efforts that yield exponentially great results.

A rabbit in the kitchen

This expression describes someone who never leaves their home or is extremely timid and stays within a confined, safe environment. It is used to mock someone's lack of worldly exposure or their tendency to always stay indoors, much like a pet rabbit that stays around the kitchen for food.

A brass parrot for the house, a golden parrot for the outside.

This proverb describes a person who presents a false, prestigious image to the world while living in poor or mediocre conditions at home. It is used to critique someone who prioritizes outward show and vanity over their actual internal reality or family's well-being.

Giving away the daughter in marriage without the principal.

This expression is used to describe a situation where someone attempts to perform a major or final act while neglecting the fundamental or essential requirement. In a literal sense, it refers to the absurdity of performing 'Kanyadanam' (the ritual of giving a daughter away) when the 'Asalu' (the basic/original sum or person) is missing. It is often applied to people who try to claim credit for a result without putting in the necessary core investment or foundation.