Aive matandadziva, ava magarangwena.

Definitions

dandadziva: long pool

magarangwena: dwelling place of crocodiles

Translation

What used to be deep long pools are now crocodile swamps.

Interpretation

This proverb speaks of loss of status, dignity, or grandeur. Something that was once of considerable size, majestic, or respected (matandadziva) has now become degraded, stagnant, and even threatening (magarangwena).

Application

Circumstances sometimes change for the worse and even that which was important could lose its worth. Sometimes you will encounter a poor man who used to be rich.

Similar Proverbs

1. Aiva madziva, ava mazambuko.

2. Aiva maguta ava matongo.

3. Chaiti chururu chakapwa; nhasi tsambarafuta rava igo.

4. Dzaiva nhungo dzava mbariro.