వేటుకు వేటు, మాటకు మాట ఉండవలె.

vetuku vetu, mataku mata undavale.

Translation

There must be a blow for a blow, and a word for a word. One word brings on another. ( Italian. )

Meaning

This expression emphasizes the importance of giving a fitting response or retaliation in kind. It suggests that one should be prepared to counter an action with an equal action or an argument with an equal argument, reflecting a sense of justice, tit-for-tat, or maintaining one's dignity in a conflict.

Related Phrases

Is there a need to search for the scent of Mahua flowers?

This proverb is used to describe something that is obvious or self-evident. Just as the strong fragrance of Mahua (Ippa) flowers is impossible to miss and doesn't require effort to find, a person's evident talent or a glaring truth does not need special investigation or proof.

An embankment for the field, a secret for the word.

Just as an embankment (bund) is necessary to hold water and protect a field, a sense of secrecy or discretion is essential for maintaining the value and integrity of a conversation or a promise. It emphasizes the importance of confidentiality and thinking before speaking.

It must be with the goldsmith, or in the chafing-dish. Said of gold made away with by a swindling goldsmith.

This proverb is used to describe things or situations that have no middle ground or compromise. It refers to gold, which must either be in the hands of the goldsmith to be shaped or in the furnace (brazier) to be purified. It implies that a person or a task should either be completely involved in the process or undergoing transformation, leaving no room for being idle or halfway done.

Vemana's words are not foolish words

This expression is used to emphasize the deep wisdom, pragmatism, and truth found in the verses of the poet Vemana. It implies that what he said is not nonsense or a 'madman's talk,' but a profound reality that people should take seriously. It is often cited when someone provides a blunt but undeniable truth about life or society.

Look before you drink, and look behind after you write.

This proverb advises caution and foresight in two different contexts. In the physical sense, one should check water/liquid before drinking to ensure it is clean. In the context of writing or documentation, one must 'look behind' or review what has been written to check for errors or unintended consequences before finalizing it.

There is no substitute or remedy for a word that has crossed its limits.

This proverb emphasizes the permanence and impact of spoken words. Once someone says something hurtful or excessive (crossing the boundary of decency or patience), the damage is irreversible. It is used to advise people to think before they speak and to maintain self-control in conversation.

Listening to hearsay leads to ruin, while honest words can be sharp.

This expression warns that acting on gossip or others' manipulative words causes harm. Conversely, sincere or truthful advice may feel blunt or 'sharp' like a spice, but it is ultimately beneficial. It is used to advise someone to be wary of rumors and appreciate honest criticism.

A person gets no answer when he transgresses the bounds of politeness. A rude speech gets no reply.

This proverb warns that once a person speaks words that exceed the boundaries of decency, respect, or truth, the damage is irreversible. Just as an arrow shot from a bow cannot be taken back, offensive or excessive words cannot be undone or rectified easily. It emphasizes the importance of thinking before speaking and maintaining self-restraint in communication.

* Non puci mal fare a nave rotta.

Pretend to condole when you cauterize.

This proverb describes a situation where someone pretends to be sympathetic or helpful while actually causing harm or dealing a severe blow. It is used to describe a calculated action that appears kind on the surface but is intended to teach a painful lesson or inflict damage, or to describe someone who acts with duplicity.

An unjust word is the throwing of a stone.

This expression emphasizes the power and consequence of words. It suggests that saying something immoral, dishonest, or unjust can be as physically and emotionally damaging as being hit by a heavy stone. It is used to caution people to speak with integrity and think before they speak, as hurtful or unethical words leave lasting scars.