पास की चीजें अच्छी नहीं लगती

pās kī cījeṃ acchī nahīṃ lagatī
phraseIntermediate familiarity breeds contemptproverb
What It Really Means
People often undervalue or dislike what is familiar or readily available to them, leading to a disregard for the things closest to them.
Literal Meaning
Things nearby do not seem good.
Literal Breakdown
पास कीnear or close+चीजेंthings+अच्छी नहीं लगतीdo not seem good
Mental Image
The mental picture is of someone overlooking or ignoring objects, people, or opportunities that are literally within arm's reach, while being drawn to distant or abstract ideals.
When to Use
Imagine a person who ignores the supportive friends around them while chasing after distant celebrities or unattainable goals. This proverb would be used to explain their behavior.
Cultural Note
This proverb is deeply rooted in Hindi and Indian cultural wisdom, reflecting a philosophical observation about human nature. It aligns with the broader Indian concept of 'Maya' (illusion), where the familiar is often taken for granted, while the distant is idealized.
literary

A proverb suggesting that people often undervalue or dislike what is familiar or readily available to them.

वह अपनी पास की चीजों को कभी महत्व नहीं देता।

He never values the things close to him.

पास की चीजें अच्छी नहीं लगती, इसलिए लोग दूर की चीजों का पीछा करते हैं।

Familiarity breeds contempt, which is why people chase distant things.

💡

Often used to explain why someone ignores or disregards what is near or easily accessible.

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb reflects a common theme in Hindi and broader Indian literature, where the tension between the familiar and the unfamiliar is explored. It is often cited to explain why people chase distant goals or relationships while ignoring what is readily available.

Gold Rule

Idiomatic Usage

Use this proverb when someone ignores or disregards what is near or easily accessible, often in favor of something distant or unattainable.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from traditional Hindi wisdom literature, reflecting a cultural observation about human psychology. The concept of undervaluing the familiar is found in ancient texts like the 'Hitopadesha' and 'Panchatantra', which emphasize the paradox of human desire for the unattainable.

📝Usage Notes

Commonly used in informal conversations, literature, and proverbial expressions. It can be applied to relationships, possessions, or opportunities that are overlooked due to their proximity.

Word Breakdown

पास की
near or close
phrase
+
चीजें
things
noun
+
अच्छी नहीं लगती
do not seem good
phrase
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