What are proverbs?
Proverbs are short, pithy sayings that convey a general truth or piece of wisdom. They are often used to provide guidance or advice on various aspects of life, such s morality, ethics, relationships, and human behavior. proverbs are typically based on cultural traditions and values, and have been passed down form generation to generation.
- In everyday conversation: Proverbs can be used in casual conversation to offer guidance or insight into a particular situation, or to provide a colorful way of expressing a thought or idea.
- In writing: Proverbs can be used in writing, such as essays, articles, and stories, to illustrate a point or to provide a memorable way of expressing a concept or idea.
- In public speaking: Proverbs can be used in public speaking to provide guidance or insight into a particular topic, or to offer a memorable way of expressing a message or idea.
- In teaching and education: Proverbs can be used in teaching and education to impart a message or piece of wisdom, or to promote cultural understanding and awareness.
Overall, proverbs are a versatile and useful tool for conveying wisdom, offering guidance, and promoting cultural understanding and identity.

Barking dog seldom bits भौकने वाला कुत्ता काटता नहीं
Meanings: People who make the most noise are often the least dangerous.
Examples:
- Don’t worry too much about him; he’s just a barking dog who seldom bites.
- She talks tough, but she’s a barking dog who seldom bites.
- When someone threatens you, remember that a barking dog seldom bites.
All that glitters is not gold हर चमकने वाली चीज सोना नहीं होती.
Things that appear attractive or valuable may not actually be so.
Examples:
- The fancy car he drives and the expensive clothes he wears are not a guarantee of his wealth; all that glitters is not gold.
- The most beautiful person may not necessarily have a beautiful personality; all that glitters is not gold.
As you sow, so shall you reap जैसी करनी वैसी भरनी.
Your actions and decisions have consequences, and you will ultimately face the results of your own actions
Examples:
- If you want to be successful, you have to work hard and put in the effort. As you sow, so shall you reap?
- If you make a habit of lying and cheating, you will eventually lose the trust of those around you. As you sow, so shall you reap?
- If you neglect your health and well-being, you will eventually suffer the consequences. As you sow, so shall you reap?
Blood is thicker than water अपना-अपना होता है पराया- पराया
Family ties are stronger and more important than other relationships.
Examples:
- When push comes to shove, family always comes first. Blood is thicker than water.
- Even when you have disagreements with your siblings, you still stand by them because blood is thicker than water.
Beggars cannot be choosers. दान ने मिली बछिया के दांत नहीं देखे जाते
When you are in a desperate or disadvantaged position, you cannot be picky or selective about the help or resources that are offered to you.
Examples:
- He was in a difficult situation and needed a job urgently. When offered a job that was not his dream job, he accepted it because beggars cannot be choosers.
- She needed money to pay her rent and bills, so she had to accept a loan from a friend, even though the interest rate was higher than she wanted. Beggars cannot be choosers.
Brides of a feather flock together. चोर-चोर मौसेरे भाई
People who share similar interests, personalities, or characteristics tend to be drawn to each other and form relationships or social groups.
Examples:
- After joining a cooking class, I quickly noticed that brides of a feather flock together as we shared our love for food and cooking techniques.
- Attending a prenatal class, I met other first-time mothers and realized that brides of a feather flock together as we all shared the excitement and anxiety of becoming parents.
A bird in hand is worth two in the bush. नौ नगद न तेरह उधार
It is better to hold onto what you have now, rather than risking it by trying to get more, because what you have is more certain than what you might get.
Examples:
- I decided not to invest all of my savings in the stock market, as I remembered that a bird in hand is worth two in the bush, and I didn’t want to risk losing everything.
- Although the job offer wasn’t perfect, I accepted it because I knew that a bird in hand is worth two in the bush, and it was better to have a stable income than to wait for a better opportunity.
- Although my friend suggested a new business venture, I declined because I remembered that a bird in hand is worth two in the bush, and I didn’t want to risk losing my current job and financial stability.
A bad workman quarrels with his tools नाच न जाने आँगन टेढ़ा
Someone who is incompetent or unskilled at a task will often blame their equipment or tools for their poor performance, rather than taking responsibility for their own shortcomings.
Examples:
- Instead of admitting his lack of programming skills, the developer kept blaming his computer for crashing, showing that a bad workman quarrels with his tools.
- The painter blamed the poor quality of his work on the brushes he was using, but his colleagues knew that a bad workman quarrels with his tools.
He whom god steers sails safely. जाको राखे साईंया मार सके न कोय
A person who has faith in God and follows a righteous path will have a safe journey through life, even in times of adversity.
Examples:
- After a difficult divorce, I found comfort in my faith, and I knew that he whom God steers sails safely, so I trusted that my journey would eventually lead to a better place.
- Despite the challenges of running a business during a pandemic, the owner trusted that he whom God steers sails safely, and continued to make decisions with integrity and compassion.
Cut your coat according to your cloth. चादर देखकर पांव फैलाओ
One should only spend within their means and adjust their expectations or ambitions to fit their available resources.
Examples:
- Instead of taking out a loan to buy a new car, I decided to cut my coat according to my cloth and purchased a used car that fit my budget.
- The organization decided to scale back on their plans and cut their coat according to their cloth, after realizing that they didn’t have enough funding to execute their initial vision.
- The family decided to cut their coat according to their cloth and switch to a more affordable phone plan, after realizing that they were paying for more than what they needed.
Give someone an inch and they will take a mile. किसी को अगर ऊँगली दो तो वह सर पर चढ़ जाते है
if you give someone a small opportunity or advantage, they will try to take as much as they can, often without any gratitude or acknowledgement.
Examples:
- After lending her friend a small sum of money, she kept asking for more and more, demonstrating that when you give someone an inch, they will take a mile.
- The boss decided to be lenient with an employee who was often late to work, but soon found that he was taking advantage of the situation, showing that when you give someone an inch, they will take a mile.
In the country of the blind the one eyed is the king. अन्धो में काना राजा
Even someone with a small advantage or a little bit of knowledge can be superior or successful in an environment where everyone else is at a disadvantage or lacks knowledge.
Examples:
- The new employee quickly became the manager’s favorite, even though he only had a little bit more experience, as in the country of the blind the one-eyed is the king.
- The only one who knew how to use a particular software program in the office became an indispensable employee, as in the country of the blind the one-eyed is the king.
A drowning man catches at a straw. डूबते को तिनके का सहारा
Someone who is in a desperate situation will cling to even the smallest chance or hope for survival
Examples:
- Despite the slim chance of survival, the lost hiker caught at a straw and continued to search for a way out, as a drowning man catches at a straw.
- The struggling business owner clung to the idea of a new product launch as a way to turn things around, as a drowning man catches at a straw.
- The unemployed worker applied to countless jobs, even ones he was overqualified for, as a drowning man catches at a straw.
Distance lends enchantment to the view दूर के ढोल सुहाने.
Things seem better or more appealing when they are far away, and not immediately within reach.
Examples:
- While traveling, I often find myself longing for home, but I know that distance lends enchantment to the view and that things aren’t always as good as they seem from afar.
- The vacation destination looked perfect online, but when we arrived, it wasn’t as great as we had expected, proving that distance lends enchantment to the view.
The child is father of the man. होनहार बिरवान के चिकने-चिकने पात
One’s character and personality are formed during childhood and remain consistent throughout one’s life.
Example:
- His childhood experiences had a significant impact on his career choice, as the child is father of the man.
It is folly to live in Rome and fight with the pope. पानी में रहकर मगरमच से दुश्मनी करना उचित नहीं
It is foolish to challenge an authority figure who holds significant power or control over a given situation, especially if they are located in a place where they have the most influence.
Examples:
- The young politician understood that it was folly to publicly criticize the powerful senator, who held much sway in the political sphere, much like fighting with the pope while living in Rome.
- The athlete recognized it was folly to publicly criticize the team owner, who held significant power and control over the team, much like fighting with the pope while living in Rome.
It is no use crying over spilt milk. अब पछताए होत क्या जब चिड़ियाँ चुग गई खेत
It is pointless to feel regret or be upset over something that has already happened and cannot be changed.
Examples:
- When she missed the deadline, she knew it was no use crying over spilt milk and decided to focus on how she could rectify the situation.
- He realized that it was no use crying over spilt milk when he lost his phone, so he immediately began looking for a replacement.
- She understood it was no use crying over spilt milk when she missed her flight and instead began to look for alternative travel arrangements.
It takes two to make a quarrel. एक हाथ से ताली नहीं बजती
A conflict or an argument cannot occur unless both parties are willing to participate and engage in the dispute.
Examples:
- In any disagreement, both parties must contribute to the argument for it to escalate into a quarrel, meaning that one person cannot be solely responsible.
- If one person refuses to engage in a conflict, there can be no quarrel as the other party would have no one to argue with.
- When a quarrel arises, it’s important to assess the situation and consider the contribution of both parties before assigning blame or trying to resolve the conflict.
It takes all sorts (to make a world. पांचो उंगलियाँ एक जैसी नहीं होती
The world is made up of a diverse range of people, each with their own unique qualities, strengths, and weaknesses.
Examples:
- This proverb suggests that the world would be incomplete and lacking in diversity without people of different backgrounds, personalities, and viewpoints.
- It’s a reminder that everyone has something to contribute to society, and that each person’s individual differences make the world a more interesting and vibrant place.
- This proverb also suggests that diversity is a strength, and that people with different backgrounds and experiences can work together to solve complex problems and create positive change in the world.
Let sleeping dogs lie. सोते शेर को मत जगाओ
It’s often better to leave a situation alone, especially if it has the potential to cause trouble or escalate into something worse.
Examples:
- This proverb advises that it’s often best not to stir up trouble or awaken something that is currently peaceful or dormant, as doing so can create unnecessary conflict or problems.
- “Let sleeping dogs lie” suggests that it’s better to avoid a potentially difficult situation rather than confront it, especially if there is no immediate need to do so.
A little learning is a dangerous thing. अधूरा ज्ञान संकट को बुलाता है
A small amount of knowledge or understanding can lead to overconfidence and potentially harmful mistakes.
Examples:
- This proverb cautions against becoming overly confident in our abilities or knowledge after only a brief or superficial exposure to a subject.
- It’s a warning against overestimating our abilities or knowledge, and to acknowledge the limitations of our understanding.
No pains, no gains. सेवा करे सो मेवा पावे.
In order to achieve something worthwhile or valuable, one must be willing to put in the necessary effort, work, or sacrifice.
Examples:
- This proverb advises us that there are no shortcuts to success, and that achieving our goals requires hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
- It’s a reminder that the rewards we receive are often proportional to the amount of effort we put in, and that we cannot expect to achieve great things without putting in the necessary work.
- “No pains, no gains” suggests that the journey to success is often more important than the destination, and that the effort and hard work we put in can be just as rewarding as the end result.
Necessity is the mother of invention. आवश्यकता आविष्कार की जननी होती है
When faced with a difficult or challenging situation, people are often motivated to find creative and innovative solutions to overcome the problem.
Examples:
- It’s a reminder that the most ground-breaking and innovative discoveries and inventions have often been born out of a necessity or need for something that did not previously exist.
- “Necessity is the mother of invention” suggests that problems and challenges can be a catalyst for progress and innovation, and that we should embrace these opportunities to find new solutions and make meaningful contributions to the world.
Money doesn’t grow on trees. पैसे पेड़ पर नहीं उगते
Money is a limited resource that must be earned through hard work and effort, and cannot be obtained easily or without effort.
Examples:
- This proverb reminds us that money is not an infinite resource, and that we should be careful and responsible with how we spend it.
- It’s a warning against the dangers of frivolous spending and living beyond our means, as these habits can lead to financial insecurity and instability.
- “Money doesn’t grow on trees” advise us to value the resources and opportunities we have, and to use them wisely to achieve our financial goals and build a sustainable future.
Make hay while the sun shines. बहती गंगा में हाथ धो लो
We should take advantage of favorable circumstances and opportunities as they arise, because they may not be available to us in the future.
Examples:
- This proverb reminds us that opportunities are often fleeting, and that we should be proactive and decisive in taking advantage of them while we can.
- It’s a warning against procrastination and complacency, as these habits can cause us to miss out on opportunities for growth, success, and happiness.
Money makes the mare go. दाम बनाये काम
Money is a powerful motivator that can drive people to take action, pursue their goals, and achieve success.
Examples:
- This proverb suggests that financial incentives are often a key factor in motivating people to work hard and achieve their goals, whether in their personal or professional lives.
- It’s a reminder that money can be a powerful tool for creating positive change and achieving success, but it should not be the only motivating factor in our lives.
Might is right. जिसकी लाठी उसकी भैस
Power and strength are the ultimate determinants of what is just and fair, and that those who have the strength to enforce their will are justified in doing so.
Examples:
- This proverb suggests that those who hold the most power and influence in a society are the ones who ultimately decide what is right and wrong.
- It’s a warning against the dangers of authoritarianism and tyranny, as these forces often use their power to enforce their will and suppress dissenting voices.
- It teaches us that true justice and fairness require a balance of power and a willingness to listen to all voices, not just those with the most strength and influence.
Listen to people but obey your conscience. सुनो सब की लेकिन करो अपने मन की
It is important to take into account the opinions and advice of others, but ultimately, you should make decisions based on what you believe is right and ethical.
Examples:
- It is crucial to seek advice and opinions from others before making important decisions, but at the end of the day, you should always listen to your conscience and do what you believe is right.
- Although it’s essential to consider other people’s perspectives, your conscience is the ultimate guide that you should follow when making moral or ethical decisions.
- While it’s crucial to be open to hearing different perspectives, always remember to follow your conscience when making difficult choices, as it will ultimately guide you towards what is right and just.
A leopard can’t change its spots. कुत्तो की पूंछ कभी सीधी नहीं होती
A person’s character, nature, or behavior is difficult or impossible to change.
Example:
- The phrase “a leopard can’t change its spots” reminds us that we should accept people for who they are, rather than trying to change them, as it’s often impossible to alter someone’s core nature or personality.
Once bitten twice shy/a burnt child dreads the fire. दूध का जला छाछ भी फुक फुक कर पीता है
A person who has experienced a negative or harmful event will be cautious and wary in the future to avoid a similar occurrence.
Examples:
- The proverbial saying “Once bitten twice shy” implies that if someone has had a negative experience, they will be more careful to avoid a similar outcome in the future.
- The saying “Once bitten twice shy” is a reminder that experiences can be powerful teachers, and that it’s essential to learn from past mistakes to avoid making the same ones in the future.
One man’s loss is another man’s gain. एक की हानि दुसरे का लाभ
A disadvantage or loss for one person can be an opportunity or advantage for another person.
Examples:
- The proverbial expression “One man’s loss is another man’s gain” implies that in some situations, one person’s loss or misfortune can create an opportunity for someone else to benefit.
Pride comes/goes before fall. घमंडी का सर नीचा
If someone is too confident or arrogant about their abilities, they are likely to experience failure or humiliation.
Examples:
- The politician’s overconfidence in his popularity led to his defeat in the election. Pride comes before a fall indeed.
- After acing the first few exams, John became very arrogant and stopped studying. His grades eventually plummeted, proving that pride goes before a fall.
Prevention is better than cure. उपचार से कही बेहतर रोकथाम ।
It is easier and wiser to take action to prevent a problem from happening than to deal with the consequences of the problem after it has occurred.
Examples:
- Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep are important preventative measures for maintaining good physical health. Prevention is definitely better than cure.
- Installing a fire extinguisher in your home is a preventative measure that can save lives and prevent property damage. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, as prevention is better than cure.
Rome wasn’t built in a day. कुबुत मीनार एक दिन में नहीं बना
Important or complex things take time and cannot be accomplished quickly or easily.
Examples:
- Learning a new language requires time and dedication; you can’t become fluent overnight. As the proverb goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day.
- Achieving success in a career or business often takes years of hard work and perseverance. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day.
Set a thief to catch a thief/ it takes a thief to catch a thief. कांटे से कांटा निकालना
Someone who has experience in a certain area of wrongdoing is best suited to uncover and stop similar wrongdoing by others.
Examples:
- In order to catch the hacker who broke into their computer systems, the company hired a former hacker who was familiar with their tactics – as they say, it takes a thief to catch a thief.
- The police department recruited a reformed criminal to help them track down a notorious gang member. The saying is true: set a thief to catch a thief.
- The government hired a former black hat hacker to help them identify and stop cybercriminals. The proverb “set a thief to catch a thief” proved to be accurate in this case.
There is one law for the rich and another for the poor. अमीरों के लिए एक काननू हो है और गरीबो से लिए दूसरी
The wealthy and powerful are often treated differently than the less privileged when it comes to the enforcement of laws and justice.
Examples:
- Despite committing the same crime, the wealthy person received a much lighter sentence than the poor person. As the proverb goes, there is one law for the rich and another for the poor.
- The wealthy businessman was able to avoid prosecution for his illegal actions through his connections and influence, while the poor individual faced harsh consequences. It’s clear that there is one law for the rich and another for the poor.
A word to the wise is sufficient समझदार को इशारा ही काफी होता है
A wise person only needs to be told something once in order to understand and act on it.
Examples:
- After warning the experienced hiker of the dangers of the upcoming trail, the guide simply said “a word to the wise is sufficient” knowing that the hiker would heed his advice.
- The mentor gave his mentee a piece of advice without elaborating too much, knowing that “a word to the wise is sufficient” and that the mentee would be able to infer the full meaning from it.
Where there is a will, there is a way. जहाँ चाह वहाँ राह
If someone has a strong determination to achieve something, they will find a way to make it happen, no matter how difficult it may seem.
Examples:
- Despite having no background in academics, the student’s determination to succeed was so strong that they were able to overcome all the obstacles and prove that where there is a will, there is a way.
- The entrepreneur’s unwavering desire to start a successful business drove them to find solutions to every challenge they faced – as the proverb goes, where there is a will, there is a way.
The wearer knows where the shoe pinches. जिस पर बीति है हकीकत सिर्फ वही जनता है।
The person experiencing a problem is the one who knows the details of that problem better than anyone else
Examples:
- When it comes to understanding the struggles of a particular job, the employees themselves are the ones who know where the shoe pinches.
- If you want to solve a customer’s complaint, it’s important to listen to their perspective because the wearer knows where the shoe pinches.
Walls have ears. दीवारों के भी कान होते है
One should be careful about what they say, even in private, because there may be someone listening.
Examples:
- During World War II, people were cautious about what they said in public places because they knew that walls have ears and spies could be listening.
- In certain cultures, people believe that walls have ears and avoid speaking about controversial topics or gossiping in public places.
When poverty comes in at door, love flies out of the window. डूबती नाव में सबसे पहले चूहे भागते है
Financial troubles can put a strain on relationships and cause people to focus on their own needs rather than their partner’s.
Examples:
- Financial problems can create tension and stress within a family, causing love and affection to fade away. In this case, poverty truly does drive out love.
- While money can’t buy happiness, it’s true that financial problems can cause significant strain on a relationship, leading to conflict and unhappiness.
Those who the gods would destroy, they first make mad. विनाशकाले विपरीत बुद्धि
Those who are destined for ruin are often driven to madness or irrationality before their downfall.
Examples:
- In some cases, people may engage in self-destructive behaviours that are irrational or harmful to themselves and others, which may ultimately lead to their ruin.
- The proverb serves as a warning to individuals who may be on a path of self-destruction, encouraging them to take a step back and reassess their behaviour before it’s too late.
There’s no smoke without fire. बिना आग के धुआ नहीं होता
If there are rumours or suspicions of something, there is usually some truth to them.
Example:
- The proverb also serves as a warning to be cautious of jumping to conclusions or dismissing rumours outright, as there may be some truth to them.
Truth will (be) out. सच को आंच नहीं
The truth will eventually be revealed, no matter how hard someone tries to conceal it.
Example:
- This proverb implies that truth is a powerful force that cannot be suppressed forever, and that eventually the truth will come to light.
Take care of the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves. बूंद बूंद से घड़ा भरता है
If one is careful with small amounts of money, then larger amounts of money will ultimately take care of themselves.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that small, careful actions can lead to significant results over time, and that focusing on small details can lead to success in the long run.
- The phrase suggests that by being frugal and saving money on small things, one can accumulate wealth and financial stability over time.
Two of a trade seldom agrees. एक मियान में दो तलवारे नहीं रह सकती
People who work in the same profession or industry are unlikely to agree with each other.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that individuals who work in the same field may have different perspectives, priorities, and interests, leading to disagreements and conflicts.
- The phrase suggests that competition and rivalry are common among people who work in the same industry, as they may be vying for the same jobs, clients, or resources.
Shallow water makes much noise. अधजल गगरी छलकत जाय
People who are uninformed or lack knowledge tend to be the most vocal and opinionated.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that individuals who are ignorant or lack depth tend to be the most talkative and may make a lot of noise, even if they don’t have much to contribute to the conversation.
- The phrase suggests that those who have little knowledge or experience may try to compensate by speaking loudly or frequently, even if they are not making a valuable contribution to the discussion.
An empty mind is a devil’s den. खाली दिमाग शैतान का घर होता है।
A person who has nothing to occupy their mind or time is more likely to get into trouble or engage in mischief.
Example:
- This proverb implies that individuals who have nothing to do or think about are more vulnerable to negative influences and may be more likely to engage in harmful or unproductive activities.
A low-born man feels proud of his honours. कुत्ते को घी कभी हजम नहीं होती।
People who come from humble or disadvantaged backgrounds are often particularly proud of their achievements or successes.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that individuals who have had to work hard and overcome obstacles to achieve success may feel a strong sense of pride and accomplishment, even if their accomplishments are relatively modest.
- The phrase suggests that people who have experienced hardship or disadvantage may be particularly appreciative of recognition and honours, as they may not have had many opportunities for recognition or validation in the past.
A blind man is no judge of colors. बन्दर क्या जाने अदरक का स्वाद।
Someone who lacks the ability to perceive or understand something is not qualified to assess or judge it.
Example:
- This proverb implies that individuals who lack the necessary experience, knowledge, or perspective to understand a particular situation or topic should not be relied upon to make informed decisions or judgments.
A friend in need is a friend indeed. वक्त पर जो काम आये वही सच्चा मित्र होता है।
A true friend is someone who is there for you when you are in need and offers their support and help without hesitation.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that someone who offers assistance or support during a difficult time is a true friend, as they have demonstrated their loyalty and care for you.
- The phrase suggests that a friend who is willing to help you during a time of need is someone who you can rely on and trust.
Christmas comes once a year. हर दिन दिवाली नहीं होती।
The idea that certain events or opportunities are rare or infrequent and should be appreciated or celebrated when they occur.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that Christmas is a special occasion that comes around only once a year, and those we should make the most of the opportunity to spend time with loved ones and celebrate the holiday.
- The phrase suggests that we should appreciate the special moments and opportunities that life presents us, as they may be fleeting or rare.
Care kills the cat. चिन्ता चित्ता के सामान है।
Excessive worrying or anxiety can be detrimental to one’s well-being and may lead to negative outcomes.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that being overly cautious or anxious can lead to inaction or missed opportunities, which can have negative consequences.
- The phrase suggests that worrying excessively about a problem or situation can be counterproductive, as it can drain one’s energy and focus and may even create additional problems.
Do good and forget. नेकी कर और दरिया में डाल।
One should do good deeds without expectation of recognition or reward, and should not dwell on their past actions.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that doing good deeds for their own sake is more important than seeking recognition or reward, and that the focus should be on the act of doing well rather than on personal gain.
- The phrase suggests that one should not attach expectations or conditions to their acts of kindness, but rather do them out of a genuine desire to help others.
Haste makes waste. जल्दी का काम शैतान का।
When we rush or act hastily, we are more likely to make mistakes or waste time and resources, rather than achieve our goals.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that taking time to plan and prepare can help us to avoid mistakes or missteps, and can ultimately save time and resources in the long run.
- The phrase can serve as a call to focus on quality over quantity, and to prioritize effectiveness and efficiency in our actions, rather than simply trying to do things quickly.
If the sky falls we shall catch larks. ना नौ मन घी होगा और ना राधा नाचेगी।
Even in the face of great adversity, there may be opportunities for success or gain.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that no matter how dire a situation may seem, there may be ways to find a silver lining or turn things to our advantage.
- The phrase suggests that by staying optimistic and looking for opportunities, we can make the best of a bad situation and even turn it into an advantage.
Self- praise is the recommendation. अपने मुहं मिया मिट्टू बनना।
When we speak highly of ourselves or our abilities, it is more effective and convincing than when others do it on our behalf.
Example:
- This proverb implies that when we are confident and self-assured, we are more likely to win the respect and admiration of others, and to be seen as competent and trustworthy.
Save life save all. जान बची लाखो पाए ।
Protecting and preserving the life of one individual, we can ultimately save and benefit many others as well.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that every life is valuable and important, and that by taking steps to save even one life, we can contribute to the greater good and benefit society as a whole.
- The phrase suggests that by prioritizing the protection and preservation of life, we can create a safer and more just world for everyone.
There is no smoke without fire. बिना आग के धुआं नहीं उठता।
Rumours or suspicions often have some basis in truth, and that if there is some indication or evidence of something, there is likely some truth to it.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that if there are indications or rumours of something happening or being true, there is likely some element of truth to it, even if it may not be the full story.
- The phrase suggests that where there is smoke, there is usually some sort of fire or underlying cause that is responsible for it.
Time and Tide wait for none. समय और अवसर किसी का भी इंतजार नहीं करता।
The importance of making the most of our time and opportunities, as they will not wait for us and will eventually pass us by.
Example:
- The phrase suggests that time and the natural forces of the world, like the tides, will continue to move forward regardless of what we do, and that we must therefore adapt and make the most of them.
Where there is a will, there is a way. जहाँ चाह वहाँ राह।
The importance of determination and perseverance in achieving one’s goals, despite the obstacles that may arise.
Examples:
- This proverb implies that a strong and unwavering desire to achieve something can help overcome any obstacle or difficulty that may stand in the way.
- The phrase suggests that having a clear and focused goal in mind can help provide direction and purpose, and can motivate us to push through any challenges that may arise.
Welcome or not, I am still your guest. मान ना मान मै तेरा मेहमान /
If someone is not welcomed or wanted, they may still arrive or be present, and they should be treated with respect and kindness.
Example:
- This proverb suggests that we should treat all guests with equal hospitality, regardless of whether or not they were invited or are particularly welcome.
Even a worm will turn गरीब को गाय भी सींग दिखाती है।
Even the meekest or weakest person will eventually retaliate or defend themselves if pushed too far or treated unfairly.
Examples:
- The patient may be patient and compliant, but even a worm will turn if the doctor repeatedly ignores their symptoms and dismisses their concerns.
- The spouse may be meek and accommodating, but even a worm will turn if their partner abuses them physically or emotionally.
Respect yourself and you will be repeated. अपनी इज्जत अपने हाँथ
If you have self-respect and confidence in yourself, others will also respect you and treat you accordingly.
Example:
- If you dress neatly and professionally, speak clearly and confidently, and act with dignity and poise, people will respect you, as respecting yourself can lead to being respected by others.
The foolish seek for wealth, the wise for perfection. अज्ञानी धन चाहता है और ज्ञानी गुण
Unwise or foolish people prioritize accumulating wealth and material possessions, whereas wise people focus on self-improvement and achieving personal excellence.
Examples:
- Some people spend their entire lives chasing after money and possessions, but wise individuals understand that true fulfilment and happiness come from pursuing personal growth and achieving one’s potential.
- Foolish individuals believe that money can buy happiness, but the wise know that happiness is an inside job that cannot be bought with wealth or material possessions.
One post and one hundred candidate’s एक अनार सौ बिमार
When there is only one job position available, many qualified individuals will compete for the opportunity.
Examples:
- When a prestigious job opening becomes available, there may be one post and one hundred candidates vying for the position, making the selection process very competitive.
- A government job that offers stability and benefits may be highly desirable to many people, resulting in one post and one hundred candidates applying for the job.
- A job opportunity in a field that is experiencing high demand may attract a large pool of applicants, leading to one post and one hundred candidates competing for the position.
A fog cannot be dispelled by a fan. ओस चाटे प्यास नहीं बुझती
Some problems or situations cannot be easily solved or resolved by using the wrong methods or approaches.
Examples:
- Trying to solve a complex mathematical problem without the necessary skills and knowledge is like using a fan to dispel a fog – it simply won’t work.
- Trying to treat a medical condition without the proper medication or expertise is like using a fan to dispel a fog – it will not be effective.
Something is better than nothing. कुछ न होने से थोड़ा अच्छा है
Having or achieving even a small or imperfect amount or result is preferable to having nothing at all.
Examples:
- If you have limited time to study for an exam, it’s better to study for a short time than to not study at all, as something is better than nothing.
- If you can only write a few pages of your thesis each day, it’s still better than not writing at all, as something is better than nothing for making progress towards completion.
Curst cows have short horns. कुत्ते की पूँछ टेढ़ी ही होती है
Bad-tempered or difficult people may not have the strength or power to back up their behaviour.
Examples:
- A boss who constantly berates and belittles employees may not have the skills or experience to lead effectively, as curst cows have short horns.
- A friend who always criticizes and complains but never offers solutions may not have the capacity to handle difficult situations, as curst cows have short horns.
Misfortune seldom comes alone. गरीबी में आटा गिला
Bad events or situations tend to happen in clusters, or one negative experience can lead to others.
Examples:
- Losing a job may lead to financial difficulties, strained relationships, and other hardships, as misfortune seldom comes alone.
- Experiencing a natural disaster can result in property damage, displacement, and trauma, as misfortune seldom comes alone.
- Failing an exam may lead to academic setbacks, lowered confidence, and decreased motivation, as misfortune seldom comes alone.
When the buffaloes fight crops suffer. गेहूँ के साथ घून भी पीस जाता है
When powerful people or groups engage in conflict or competition, innocent bystanders or weaker parties are often negatively impacted.
Examples:
- When large corporations engage in cut-throat competition, small businesses and consumers can suffer, as when the buffaloes fight crops suffer.
- When politicians engage in bitter rivalries and power struggles, citizens and the public good can be neglected, as when the buffaloes fight crops suffer.
Traitors are the worst enemies. घर का भेदी लंका ढावे
Those who betray others or their trust are particularly harmful and damaging, as they exploit vulnerabilities and cause harm from within.
Examples:
- In war, traitors who switch sides or reveal confidential information can cause significant damage and loss, as traitors are the worst enemies.
- In a company, an employee who steals confidential information or sabotages projects can cause significant harm to the business, as traitors are the worst enemies.
- In a community, an individual who spreads rumours or incites conflict can cause significant harm to unity and cooperation, as traitors are the worst enemies.
No rose without a thorn. जहाँ फूल वहाँ काँटा
Nothing in life is perfect, and even the most beautiful or desirable things can have negative aspects or drawbacks.
Examples:
- Even the most successful and wealthy people face challenges and setbacks in life, as no rose without a thorn.
- Even the most loving and supportive relationships can have moments of conflict or misunderstanding, as no rose without a thorn.
Much coin, much care जितना धन उतनी चिंता
The more wealth one possesses, the more responsibility and worries they will have to manage it.
Examples:
- Successful entrepreneurs and businesspeople that accumulate wealth often face additional responsibilities and concerns, as much coin, much care.
- Heirs and beneficiaries of large inheritances often face additional pressure to manage their wealth responsibly and live up to the expectations of those who came before them, as much coin, much care.
Empty vessels make much noise. थोथा चना बाजे घना
People who lack knowledge, wisdom, or substance often make the most noise, while those who are knowledgeable and wise tend to be more reserved and thoughtful.
Examples:
- In a debate, someone who is uninformed or has little knowledge on the topic may speak more forcefully and confidently, even if they are wrong, as empty vessels make much noise.
- In a social setting, someone who is insecure or lacks confidence may talk excessively or try too hard to impress others, as empty vessels make much noise.
No meat without some sweat. दुख भोगे बिना सुख कहाँ
Hard work is necessary to achieve success or obtain something of value.
Examples:
- To become a successful athlete, one must put in many hours of training and hard work, as no meat without some sweat.
- To earn a high salary or position in a company, one must work diligently and put in extra effort to stand out from the competition, as no meat without some sweat.
- To build a successful business, one must be willing to take risks, work long hours, and overcome setbacks and obstacles, as no meat without some sweat.