பிறருடன் மனங்கலந்து பழகாமல், தன் சொந்த பலத்தையும் அறியாமல் தன்னைப் பெரிதாக எண்ணியவன் விரைவில் அழிவான்.

மற்றவர்களை மதிக்காமலும், தன் வலிமையை உணர்ந்து கொள்ளாமலும், தன்னைத் தானே பெரிதாக விளம்பரப் படுத்திக் கொண்டிருப்பவர்கள் விரைவில் கெட்டுத் தொலைவார்கள்

மற்றவர்களோடு ஒத்து நடக்காமல், தன் வலிமையின் அளவையும் அறியாமல், தன்னை வியந்து மதித்துக் கொண்டிருப்பவன் விரைவில் கெடுவான்.

He will quickly perish who, ignorant of his own resources flatters himself of his greatness, and does

The Kural 474 emphasizes the peril of overestimating oneself without a true understanding of one's own capabilities and limitations. This verse is a cautionary statement against the dangers of self-flattery and self-deception, which are seen as a quick path to downfall. In essence, the verse is cautioning against arrogance and self-delusion. It warns that if a person, ignorant of their real strength and capabilities, indulges in self-praise and overestimation, they are likely to fail quickly. This is because their actions and decisions, based on an inflated sense of self, will not be grounded in reality, and thus will lead to mistakes, failures and, eventually, ruin. The verse underscores the importance of self-awareness and humility. It advises us to understand and acknowledge our strengths and weaknesses, rather than deluding ourselves with a false sense of superiority. This self-awareness, combined with respect for others' abilities, is seen as key to long-term success and survival. In a broader cultural context, this verse also reflects the high value placed on modesty, humility, and self-awareness in the Tamil culture and tradition. The Thirukkural, as a whole, consistently promotes these virtues as necessary for a righteous and successful life.