వినని బంటుకు వెన్నపూస కూడానా

This proverb is used to mock someone who lacks common sense or social intelligence. It describes a person who takes a metaphorical instruction literally and responds in a silly or irrelevant way. It highlights the difference between being 'gentle/polite' (soft words) and literally naming 'soft objects'.

This proverb suggests that a person who lacks self-respect or a sense of honor is rarely disappointed or deceived because they do not have high standards or expectations to be betrayed. It is often used to criticize someone who lacks the courage to stand up for themselves, implying that while they might stay safe, they lack dignity.

This expression is used to describe a narration or explanation that is extremely clear, orderly, and detailed. Just as beads are meticulously arranged one by one on a string, it refers to telling a story or presenting facts in a seamless, sequential, and lucid manner.

This proverb advises on social etiquette and common sense. Being the first to bathe (in a public or shared ritual setting) might mean dealing with cold water or unpreparedness, while being last for a 'Sambhavana' (a traditional monetary gift or honorarium) might mean the funds or gifts run out before your turn. It is often used to suggest that one should time their actions wisely to avoid inconvenience or loss.

This proverb highlights the importance of honor and dignity. Just as a mustache was traditionally seen as a symbol of authority for a king, self-respect (rosham) is essential for a soldier. If they lack these qualities, they have nothing left to lose because they have already lost their status and dignity in the eyes of society.

This expression is used to describe a situation where a person who is incapable of managing their own basic responsibilities or needs suddenly takes on an even larger or more complex burden. It mocks the irony of someone failing at the individual level yet attempting something that requires much more resources or maturity.

This expression is used to mock someone who, despite being incapable of helping themselves or being in a dire state, tries to take on additional burdens or pretend they can provide for others. It highlights the irony of someone who cannot sustain themselves but is followed by others (like a pet cat) expecting to be fed.

This expression is used to describe someone who lacks skill or ability but blames their tools or circumstances for their failure. It is equivalent to the English proverb 'A bad workman always blames his tools.'

This expression is used to describe a person who is completely alone, has no relatives, or no connections whatsoever. It signifies absolute isolation or the lack of any support system, often used when referring to a person who has no family to call their own.

* Trane, schau Wem! † Fidati era un buon uomo, Noutifdare era meglio.

This proverb is used to describe a coward who looks for any trivial excuse to avoid a task or escape a situation. Just as a cowardly soldier might claim a simple sneeze is a bad omen or a reason to retreat from battle, it highlights how people make lame excuses due to fear.