Slang from Singapore

To pretend to be ignorant or confused.

Used to ask for confirmation or agreement.

Exclamation of dismay, pain, or pity.

An expression of surprise, alarm, or sudden realization (from Malay).

Not invited (from Hokkien).

Yes; possible; permission granted.

No; impossible; permission denied.

Is this possible? / Can you do this?

Dont understand; unable to grasp the concept.

Profound; complex; highly technical (from Hokkien).

To reserve a seat, usually using a tissue packet at a hawker center.

A term of light, often playful endearment.

Definitely; surely; certain (used to affirm information).

Something so good or important that one must try it (extreme recommendation).

Dont joke around; be serious (implies severe consequences).

Hurry up; quicken the pace.

Brave; fierce; daring (from Malay).

A feeling of being emotional or touched (from Hokkien).

Stupid or idiotic (often used affectionately or lightly).

Where are you going? (The direct, common Singlish phrasing).

Lucky; fortunate (from Hokkien).

Delicious (from Hokkien).

To go for a walk or stroll (from Malay).

Terrible; disastrous; severe (from Hokkien).

Friend; close accomplice; partner in an activity (from Malay).

A busybody; someone who is nosy or meddlesome (from Hokkien).

To be afflicted by; to be hit by; to suffer an unfortunate event (from Malay).

A fearful attitude of losing out; competitive or greedy (from Hokkien).

Soft affirmation, exasperation, or emphasis. A universal conversational particle.

In the past; back then (referring to a previous time).

Soon; in a while; putting something off.

Used to soften a request or statement.

To chill out; to relax; to lounge around (from Malay).

To drink coffee; informally, to go for a casual meeting (from Hokkien).

Expresses certainty or resignation; implies the fact is obvious.

Stop messing around; dont be silly or play games (from Hokkien).

To eat a meal (from Malay).

Expresses doubt, confusion, or skepticism.

Right now; immediately; utmost urgency.

One's highly committed, long-term romantic partner.

Embarrassing; feeling ashamed; shy (from Hokkien).

Excellent; strong; impressive (used for food or quality).

To sabotage or play a mean trick on someone.

Tasty or delicious (from Malay).

Excellent; delicious; a feeling of pure pleasure or satisfaction.

Bored; tired of something; jaded (from Hokkien).

Exclamation used to express extreme disbelief or surprise.

Reliable; calm; trustworthy; also used to confirm a plan.

Good; nice; smooth; attractive (from Malay).

Takeaway food (from Mandarin "dăo bāo").

A truly committed and reliable romantic partner.

Remote; rural; isolated (referring to a location, from Malay).

Exclamation of surprise, shock, or amazement.

A simple, intimate confirmation that the relationship is secure and stable.