If you’re an expat and you know these 10 Singlish phrases, you’re practically Singaporean

From the Personal Branding Blog

Being an expat is a crazy ride, especially when you’re in a place like Singapore. The food, the culture, the skyline, it’s all amazing! But the real challenge? Singlish!

Singlish, a unique blend of English, Malay, Hokkien, and more, is a true embodiment of the multicultural city-state. And for an expat? It can be baffling.

But don’t worry! There’s a quick way to feel at home. Master these 10 Singlish phrases and you’re practically a local.

Ready to sound like a true-blue Singaporean? Let’s jump right in!

1) Lah

If there’s one word that immediately screams ‘Singlish’, it’s ‘lah’.

This versatile little word is sprinkled throughout conversations, adding emphasis and emotion. It’s a linguistic chameleon, changing meaning based on the tone and context.

Imagine this. You’re at a local food stall, and the auntie asks if you want more chilli. You respond with a confident “No chilli, lah!” That ‘lah’ tells her you’re not just another expat, but someone who’s embraced the Singaporean way of speaking.

Just remember, using ‘lah’ doesn’t mean you’re being casual or dismissive. It’s all about the tone. Use it wisely, and you’ll fit right in, lah!

2) Shiok

Let me share a personal experience. I was at a hawker centre, trying out the famed Hainanese Chicken Rice for the first time. After the first bite, I let out an involuntary “Shiok!” The uncle serving me flashed a knowing smile.

‘Shiok’ is one of those quintessential Singlish phrases that’s hard to translate but embodies a feeling. It’s an exclamation of sheer delight and satisfaction, often used when relishing good food or a refreshing cold drink on a hot day.

Since that day, ‘shiok’ has become a staple in my vocabulary. It’s not just a word; it’s an emotion, capturing the joy of living in Singapore. Trust me, start using ‘shiok’, and you’ll be one step closer to feeling like a true Singaporean.

3) Kiasu

‘Kiasu’ is a phrase that you’ll often hear in Singapore. It’s derived from the Hokkien dialect and directly translates to ‘afraid to lose’.

This term is often used to describe the competitive nature of Singaporeans, their desire to always be first in line or to grab the best bargains. It’s so deeply embedded in the culture that there’s even a popular local comic book character called ‘Mr. Kiasu’ who embodies this trait.

But it’s not all negative! ‘Kiasu’ also reflects the resilience and tenacity of the people, their determination not to miss out on opportunities. So, if you’re ever accused of being ‘kiasu’, take it as a compliment – you’re blending right in with the locals!

4) Wah piang

‘Wah piang’ is your go-to phrase for expressing surprise or exasperation in Singlish. It’s equivalent to the English ‘Oh my gosh’ or ‘What the heck’.

Imagine you wake up to the sound of thunder in the middle of the night, you would exclaim “Wah piang, so loud!” Or, let’s say you see the unbelievable queue at a popular eatery, you might say “Wah piang, so many people!”

Remember, it’s not just about knowing the phrase; it’s about using it at the right time. Use ‘Wah piang’ correctly, and you’re sure to impress any local with your Singlish skills!

5) Alamak

If you’ve ever made a mistake or had a minor mishap in Singapore, ‘Alamak’ is the word you need. It’s the Singlish equivalent of ‘Oops’ or ‘Oh no’.

Dropped your phone? “Alamak!” Forgot to bring your umbrella in the pouring rain? “Alamak!” It’s a versatile phrase that perfectly captures those small frustrations and surprises in daily life.

So next time something doesn’t go as planned, don’t fret. Just say “Alamak”, shake it off, and carry on like a true Singaporean would.

6) Got heart

‘Got heart’ is a phrase that resonates deeply with me because it’s not just about understanding Singaporean slang, but about appreciating the spirit of the people here.

In Singlish, when someone says you ‘got heart’, it means you’re courageous or you’ve shown great effort. It can be used to acknowledge someone who’s overcome a challenge or done something commendable.

So if you’re an expat who’s made an effort to adapt to the local culture, learn the language, and embrace the Singaporean way of life, then you truly ‘got heart’. And trust me, nothing will make you feel more Singaporean than that.

7) Paiseh

When I first moved to Singapore, I had my fair share of embarrassing moments. Like that time I tried to order food in a hawker centre, completely butchered the pronunciation, and had a whole table of locals laughing. In moments like these, I learned the value of ‘paiseh’.

‘Paiseh’ is the Singlish way of saying ‘sorry’ or expressing embarrassment. It’s an easy way to acknowledge your mistakes with a touch of lightheartedness.

So next time you find yourself in a bit of an awkward situation in Singapore, just say ‘paiseh’. It might just turn an embarrassing moment into a laugh and a new local friend.

8) Can or not

Here’s a phrase that might seem a bit puzzling at first – ‘Can or not’. It’s a Singlish way of asking if something is possible or if someone is able to do something.

You might wonder why not simply ask ‘Can you?’ But here’s the thing, ‘Can or not’ is more than just a question. It’s a reflection of the efficiency and directness that Singaporeans value in their communication.

So, while it may feel odd to ask “You coming for dinner, can or not?”, it’s actually an efficient way of asking for confirmation. Try it out! You might be surprised how quickly it becomes second nature.

9) Bojio

Ever felt left out when your friends go out without inviting you? There’s a Singlish word for that – ‘Bojio’.

Derived from the Hokkien dialect, ‘Bojio’ is a playful way of saying ‘Why didn’t you invite me?’ It’s often used in casual conversations among friends.

So, if your local buddies ever head to a hawker centre without you, feel free to playfully accuse them with a “Eh, bojio!” It’s a fun way to express your disappointment while showing off your Singlish prowess.

10) Jialat

‘Jialat’ is the word you need when things go really wrong. It roughly translates to ‘terrible’ or ‘disastrous’ in English.

Missed your bus and running late for a meeting? “Jialat!” Realized you left your wallet at home after ordering food? “Jialat!”

It’s a phrase that encapsulates the shared experiences of life’s little troubles, connecting you with the locals on a deeper level. So, master ‘jialat’, and you’re not just speaking Singlish – you’re living the Singaporean experience.

Embracing Singlish: More than just words

The beauty of Singlish lies not just in its unique vocabulary, but in the rich tapestry of cultures it represents. Each word and phrase carries the flavor of Singapore’s diverse ethnic communities, painting a vibrant picture of this multicultural city-state.

For an expat, mastering these phrases is more than just learning a new language; it’s an invitation into the heart of Singaporean life. It’s about understanding the local humor, sharing in their frustrations and joys, and connecting on a deeper level.

As you navigate your journey in Singapore, remember that every ‘lah’, ‘shiok’, and ‘jialat’ you utter is a step towards feeling more at home. So embrace Singlish, not just as a language, but as an essential part of your Singaporean experience.

After all, language is more than just a tool for communication; it’s a bridge that connects us to people, cultures, and experiences. And who knows? With every Singlish phrase you speak, you might just find a piece of Singapore to call your own.

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