proverb [proverb]

Mgema akisifiwa tembo hulitia maji

Maana (Definition)

A proverb warning that over-praising someone can lead to complacency and ruined quality.

Tafsiri ya Kiingereza (English):

If the palm tapper is praised he dilutes the wine with water

Sheng / Standard Equivalent:

Mgema akisifiwa tembo hulitia maji

Asili na Utamaduni (Origin & Etymology): Swahili Cautionary Proverb

Mfano wa Sentensi (Example Sentence):

"Usimsifu kupita kiasi kwani mgema akisifiwa tembo hulitia maji."

Translation: Do not overpraise him because if the tapper is praised he waters down the wine.

Maneno Yanayohusiana (Related Terms):

Tahadhari ni kinga Sifa