Kaki (kah-kee)
A term originated from a Malay word which literally translates to limbs, helpers or henchmen. Also can refers to a friend, companion or buddy
Ngeow (neeow)
A singlish term originated from the Hokkien word – cat. It means fussy, particular or unnecessary pedantic or strict. Someone who is nitpicky or tries to find fault
Kiam
A hokkien term to describe salt flavour. It may also refer to a person being a cheapskate
Kaya (car-ya)
Coconut and egg custard jam
Kiasu (kia-sue)
A Hokkien term for ‘fear of losing out’
Kiasi (kia-see)
A Hokkien term for ‘fear of death’
Kong Bak (Khong bahk)
Soy sauce stewed pork belly
Kopi (koh-pee)
Coffee
Kopitiam
Coffeeshop
Kosong
Plain, zero
Kueh
Traditional cake/pastry
Kway Teow
Flat rice noodles
Lemak
Rich/thick in coconut milk
Makan
Eat, food, eating
Cha kway
Rice
Paiseh (pie-say)
To feel bashful, shy or to be embarrassed. Or to feel apologetic or be sorry. Often used in casual situations as a form of courtesy
Pasar Malam
Night market
Play play (pray-pray)
A Singlish phrase originated from the Mandarin language which means to play the fool, fool around, or take lightly
Powderful (powder-ful)
A deliberate mispronunciation of the word powerful. Use to denote extremity, or a high level of proficiency
Roti
Bread
Shiok (shee-oak)
Good, fantastic, superb and wonderful
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