मतलब
Don't act without knowing consequences.
सांस्कृतिक पृष्ठभूमि
The proverb is deeply tied to the geography of Kerala, which has 44 rivers. Wading through water was a daily necessity for centuries. Malayali entrepreneurs are known for being cautious. This proverb is often cited in business meetings to justify thorough due diligence. In traditional 'Gurukula' or home-based learning, this proverb was taught as a fundamental rule of 'Niti' (ethics/policy). With the rise of online scams, Kerala Police often use this proverb in their social media awareness campaigns.
Use it for Sarcasm
You can use this sarcastically when someone has already made a mistake. 'ആഴമറിയാതെ കാൽ വെച്ചതല്ലേ, ഇനി അനുഭവിച്ചോ!' (You stepped in without knowing the depth, now suffer!)
Don't over-literalize
If you are actually at a swimming pool, just say 'Aazhamund' (It's deep). Using the full proverb might sound like you're quoting a poem.
मतलब
Don't act without knowing consequences.
Use it for Sarcasm
You can use this sarcastically when someone has already made a mistake. 'ആഴമറിയാതെ കാൽ വെച്ചതല്ലേ, ഇനി അനുഭവിച്ചോ!' (You stepped in without knowing the depth, now suffer!)
Don't over-literalize
If you are actually at a swimming pool, just say 'Aazhamund' (It's deep). Using the full proverb might sound like you're quoting a poem.
खुद को परखो
Complete the proverb.
ആഴമറിയാതെ ____ വെക്കരുത്.
The proverb specifically uses 'Kaal' (foot) to represent taking a step into water.
In which situation is this proverb most appropriate?
Situation: A friend wants to invest all their savings in a new company they heard about on WhatsApp.
This situation involves a risky commitment without research, which is the core meaning of the proverb.
Choose the best response.
A: 'ഞാൻ ആ പഴയ വീട് വാങ്ങാൻ തീരുമാനിച്ചു.' B: 'അവിടെ എന്തെങ്കിലും പ്രശ്നമുണ്ടോ എന്ന് നോക്കിയോ? ____.'
B is warning A to check for hidden problems before buying the house.
🎉 स्कोर: /3
विज़ुअल लर्निंग टूल्स
अभ्यास बैंक
3 अभ्यासആഴമറിയാതെ ____ വെക്കരുത്.
The proverb specifically uses 'Kaal' (foot) to represent taking a step into water.
Situation: A friend wants to invest all their savings in a new company they heard about on WhatsApp.
This situation involves a risky commitment without research, which is the core meaning of the proverb.
A: 'ഞാൻ ആ പഴയ വീട് വാങ്ങാൻ തീരുമാനിച്ചു.' B: 'അവിടെ എന്തെങ്കിലും പ്രശ്നമുണ്ടോ എന്ന് നോക്കിയോ? ____.'
B is warning A to check for hidden problems before buying the house.
🎉 स्कोर: /3
अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल
4 सवालNo, it is generally seen as helpful advice. However, if said with a certain tone, it can sound patronizing.
Yes, especially in a professional context where you are advising caution regarding a project or investment.
There isn't a direct opposite proverb, but 'ധൈര്യമായി മുന്നോട്ട് പോവുക' (Go forward with courage) is the opposite sentiment.
It's the same sound as in 'Malayalam' or 'Kozhikode'. It's a signature sound of the language.
संबंधित मुहावरे
നോക്കി കണ്ടും നടക്കുക
similarWatch and see while walking.
തല വെച്ചു കൊടുക്കുക
contrastTo offer one's head (to trouble).
മുൻകരുതൽ എടുക്കുക
builds onTo take precautions.