एक कारण सौ परिणाम

ek kaaraṇ sau pariṇāma◆proverb
one cause, many effects

उसके एक फैसले ने उसके पूरे जीवन के परिणाम बदल दिए।

One decision changed the results of his entire life.

◆ What It Really Means
A single action or decision can create a cascade of unintended or far-reaching effects, emphasizing the interconnectedness of events.
Literal Meaning
One cause leads to a hundred results.
Literal Breakdown
एकone+कारणcause+सौhundred+परिणामresults
◇ Mental Image
Imagine a stone dropped into a pond: the initial splash (one cause) sends ripples outward (hundreds of results), affecting distant areas.
◈ When to Use
A manager’s decision to cut costs leads to employee layoffs (immediate effect), which then causes reduced morale, lower productivity, and eventual company decline (ripple effects).
◉ Cultural Note
Rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, this proverb reflects the Hindu-Buddhist principle of karma, where actions generate consequences beyond immediate perception. It’s often cited in moral teachings to highlight the importance of ethical choices.
literary

A single action or decision can lead to numerous consequences, often highlighting the ripple effect of choices.

उसके गुस्से का एक कारण सौ परिणाम निकले।

One reason for his anger led to a hundred consequences.

एक छोटी सी गलती भी बड़े परिणाम ला सकती है।

Even a small mistake can lead to big results.

Often used to emphasize the importance of thoughtful decision-making.

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb aligns with the Hindu-Buddhist concept of karma, where actions (even unintentional) create a chain of consequences. It’s often cited to encourage ethical behavior.

Gold Rule

Usage Scenario

Use this proverb when discussing how a single event or decision has unexpectedly broad ramifications. Avoid literal interpretations; focus on the figurative meaning of cause-and-effect chains.

Word Origin

A traditional Hindi proverb combining 'एक' (one), 'कारण' (cause/reason), 'सौ' (hundred), and 'परिणाम' (result/consequence). The phrase reflects the ancient Indian philosophical concept of karma, where actions (even singular) generate multiple outcomes.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in moral, philosophical, or reflective contexts to discuss the far-reaching impacts of actions. Often appears in literature, speeches, or everyday advice.

Word Breakdown

एक
one
numeral
+
कारण
cause/reason
noun
+
सौ
hundred
numeral
+
परिणाम
result/consequence
noun
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