«اِلْعُزُوبِيَّهْ وَلَا الْجَوَازَهْ الْعِرَّهْ»

Remaining unmarried is presented as preferable to entering a marriage that disgraces whoever is bound to it. The point is not mere bad luck or discomfort: being alone has its costs, but a shameful union stains a person's standing far more deeply and lastingly.

Marriage is only the example; the saying's broader lesson is to choose the lighter of two harms. When every option carries some cost, one should accept the hardship that leaves dignity intact rather than the one that invites shame.

Say it when someone must choose between staying without something, such as a spouse, partner or arrangement, and accepting an option likely to bring dishonor. Its advice is to endure the lack rather than take on lasting disgrace.