వేలు చూపిస్తే మండ మింగుతారు, మండ చూపిస్తే మనిషినే మింగుతారు

This expression describes a critical dilemma or a 'catch-22' situation where every available option leads to a negative outcome. It is traditionally used in contexts like a medical emergency involving a modest person, or any situation where one must choose between a loss of dignity and a loss of life/safety.

This expression describes extreme obedience or the proactive nature of a dedicated subordinate or servant. It implies that if a master gives a minor or casual command (symbolized by pointing with a foot), the subordinate should execute it with the utmost respect, diligence, and intellectual effort (symbolized by the head). It is used to illustrate deep loyalty or the expectation of swift, high-quality execution of tasks.

Cringing is a gainful accomplishment.

This expression is used to criticize someone who tries to maintain a high-status appearance or a stylish facade while lacking the actual financial means or substance to back it up. It implies that superficiality cannot solve deep-rooted problems.

This expression describes a person who makes grand, empty boasts or threats while being lazy or inactive. It is used to mock someone who talks big about their capabilities or temper but fails to take any actual action.

This proverb highlights that if you disrespect or expose the weaknesses of your own family members to others, outsiders will take it as an opportunity to treat them even worse. It is a warning to maintain family unity and dignity in public, as any internal crack allows others to exploit or insult the family more severely.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone who lacks knowledge or expertise tries to guide another person who is equally ignorant. It highlights the inevitable failure or disaster that occurs when leadership or advice is sought from incompetent sources. It is equivalent to the English expression 'the blind leading the blind'.

This proverb describes a situation where someone tries to point out a minor flaw in others but ends up attracting negative attention or criticism towards themselves. It is used when someone's unnecessary interference or criticism backfires, making them look bad instead of the person they were targeting.

This expression refers to the 'food chain' or the hierarchy of power. It signifies that there is always someone more powerful or superior to oneself. It serves as a reminder to stay humble, as those who exploit the weak will eventually face a stronger force or a higher authority.

This proverb highlights that if family members disrespect or expose the weaknesses of their own kin, outsiders will feel emboldened to treat them with even greater contempt or cause more significant harm. It emphasizes the importance of family unity and loyalty in maintaining social standing.

This expression means that certain results are inevitable when the right conditions are met. Just as butter cannot resist heat, people or situations will react naturally and immediately to strong influence, pressure, or temptation without needing to be told.