Makansutra Singapore Food Ebook 2023/24

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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