The global recognition of Singlish has reached a new milestone as nine commonly used expressions have been added to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED). This inclusion reflects how everyday language in Singapore and Malaysia continues to shape global English.
From food names to slang, these words capture cultural identity, social behavior, and shared experiences in a uniquely local way.
1. Assam Laksa
Assam laksa refers to a sour and spicy noodle soup that originates from Penang and is widely enjoyed in Singapore and Malaysia. Its inclusion highlights how regional cuisines influence language.
The term is not just about food but also represents cultural heritage and culinary identity embedded in everyday speech.
2. Agak-agak
Agak-agak is both a noun and a verb used to describe estimation or guesswork. It is often associated with intuitive cooking, where ingredients are added based on feeling rather than precise measurement.
Beyond the kitchen, it reflects a broader cultural approach to flexibility and improvisation in daily life.
3. Boleh
Boleh functions as both a verb and an interjection, meaning “can,” “able to,” or simply expressing agreement like “okay” or “yes.” Popularized in phrases such as “Malaysia boleh,” it conveys confidence, encouragement, and approval in casual conversation.
4. BTO
BTO stands for “Build-To-Order,” referring to Singapore’s public housing system. It is commonly used as both a noun and a verb, especially when discussing life milestones such as couples applying for a home together.
The term has evolved into a cultural shorthand for commitment and long-term planning for Singlish speakers.
5. Wayang
Wayang originally referred to traditional theatrical performances involving puppetry or dance from Java.
In modern usage, it has taken on a figurative meaning, describing behavior that is showy, exaggerated, or insincere. This dual meaning reflects how traditional culture adapts to contemporary social contexts.
6. Kaypoh
Kaypoh describes someone who is overly curious or meddles in other people’s affairs. It is often used humorously but can also carry mild criticism. The word captures a familiar social archetype, making it both relatable and widely used in everyday conversations.
7. Jialat
Jialat is an adjective used to describe a troublesome, difficult, or disastrous situation. Borrowed from Hokkien, it expresses a sense of frustration or seriousness when things go wrong. Its emotional tone makes it a vivid and expressive addition to English vocabulary.
8. Play-play
Play play means to do something casually or without seriousness. It is often used in warnings or reminders, such as telling someone not to take a situation lightly. The repetition emphasizes informality and reflects conversational patterns typical of Singlish.
9. Ice Kacang
Ice kacang is a popular dessert made of shaved ice topped with sweet syrups, beans, and other ingredients. Like assam laksa, its inclusion shows how food terms travel into global English. It represents not only a dish but also a shared cultural experience in Southeast Asia.
Together, these nine words demonstrate how Singlish continues to gain international recognition. Their addition to the OED underscores the evolving nature of English as a global language shaped by diverse cultures and communities.
