Atambwali sametana.

“Two crooks cannot cut each other's hair.”

Two dishonest people can never fully trust one another, since each knows the other's true character.

M'mphece-peche mwa njobvu sapitamo kawiri.

“One must never pass between an elephant's legs twice.”

Do not tempt the same danger a second time; a narrow escape is a lesson, not an invitation.

Mphuno imodzi silowa zala ziwiri.

“Two fingers cannot enter one nostril.”

Some places and roles can hold only one person at a time; do not crowd where there is no room.

Tambala salira kwa eni.

“A rooster does not crow on someone else's land.”

A person carries authority and confidence only where they truly belong; show humility away from home.

Dyeratu, cakudza siciyimba ng'oma.

“Eat your fill now, for what is coming does not sound a drum to announce itself.”

Prepare for today's needs, since tomorrow's troubles arrive without warning.

Mlendo sathyola mphasa.

“A visitor does not break the sleeping mat.”

Guests should behave with restraint and respect while in another person's home.