Parveen MagheraAs we step into 2025, Singapore continues to thrive as a global powerhouse, renowned for its innovation, economic prowess, and vibrant culture. Yet, one aspect of our rich heritage remains under-appreciated on the international stage— Our unique Singaporean slang. These quirky phrases not only add colour to our everyday conversations but also encapsulate the spirit of our diverse nation. Perhaps it’s time for the world to embrace some of these distinctly Singaporean expressions!
Also read: Famous Singaporean Food Spots in Popular Overseas Locations
1. So Shiok
Image credit: Waqar Hussain via Getty Images
Have you ever been at a loss of words to describe a certain dish, your good night’s sleep, the weather and what not? Forget about it, just use “shiok”!
“Wah the weather is so shiok.”
“This curry is very spicy. Shiok!”
2. Makan already?
Image credit: Eugenio Marongui via Canva Pro
We think that “makan” is so common that it deserves an entry in the English dictionaries or thesauruses. Don’t blame us, we’re just eager to share our discovery (makan is another word for eat) with the rest of the world!
Imagine Martha Stewart saying, “When we makan these delicious Asian meatballs…”
3. Why bo jio me?
Image credit: FatCamera via Getty Images Signature
If you ever want to hint to someone that you’re upset on not being invited to a dinner party, just bring in a “bo jio”. Your sarcasm is well-confined in a term that encapsulates a negative and positive connotation at the same time when used with the English language. Your friends will never guess it.
4. We HTHT until 4am
Image credit: DragonImages via Canva Pro
According to the very reliable Urban Dictionary, HTHT means “heart to heart talk”.
We have already told you that we’re a nation of acronyms and abbreviations, haven’t we? Since we’re too cool to spend more muscles enunciating phrases that sound too heavy, we have conveniently compressed “heart to heart talk” to “HTHT”.
It saves energy. Trust us!
5. Okay can can
Image credit: Rowan Jordan via Getty Images Signature
Don’t just say “okay” or “all right”. Bring in some enthusiasm! Each extra “can” speaks millions about your emotions.
6. Stare what stare?
Image credit: Antsmarching via Getty Images
When you’re in a fight against someone, won’t a “Whatcha lookin’ at” be too polite? Try this: “Eh you stare what stare?”
Fierce? Checked. Murderous rage? Checked. He/she should run away? Yes.
7. Lah
Image credit: Ljupco via Getty Images
Ah, the iconic “lah”. Think of “mate” in Australia or “lad” in England. But what if we told you it doesn’t actually carry any meaning? “Lah” is simply added to emphasise a statement.
8. Sorry, sorry, PS PS
Image credit: Fizkes via Getty Images
And if you don’t know what to say after committing a silly blunder, throw in a “PS, PS” with a slightly embarrassed-looking salute to show how shameful you feel for your actions. It helps to lighten the mood.
And if you don’t know, PS is short for “paiseh”, which means embarrassed. Abbreviations, abbreviations.
9. Sian
Image credit: Andrea Piacquadio via Pexels
Feeling tired of everything now, or anything for that matter? Use this in ANY or EVERY modern situation. Homework? Bad traffic? Feeling lethargic? So sian.
10. The queue is DAMN long!
Image credit: Vinh Dao via Canva Pro
While the number of times you use “can” depicts your emotions, just the word “damn” before anything intensifies the whole situation.
11. Don’t pon(teng)
Image credit: Iqbal Nuril Anwar via Corelens
If you ponteng a class, you intentionally skip it. To cut a syllable, use “pon”. Another alternative to “bunk” perhaps? Of course! Diversity is very important for the frequent truant.
And no, it’s not “porn”. But well, let the sexual innuendos come.
12. Don’t play play
Image credit: The Everett Collection via Canva Pro
The best way to warn someone not to mess with the situation, object or anything for that matter, is by giving a stern look and saying “don’t play play”. Easy!
13. Don’t kaypoh
Image credit: Изображения пользователя Вячеслав Николаенко via Canva Pro
We all hate micromanagers and busybodies. Next time someone tries to snoop into your business, say this!
Also read: 10 of Our Favourite Singapore Local Drinks
In an increasingly connected world, language serves as a bridge between cultures. Singapore‘s unique slang reflects the nation’s rich tapestry of influences and adds a distinctive flair to our communication. Whether it’s expressing joy with “shiok” or playfully reprimanding with “don’t play play,” these phrases encapsulate the essence of Singaporean life. As we continue to make our mark globally, it’s high time the world adopted some of our linguistic gems. So, next time you’re looking for the perfect expression, why not try a little Singaporean flair?
