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Singlish
Photograph: Wikimedia

Singlish words we don't hear anymore

Would you want to hear 'chao mugger' back again in conversations?

Delfina Utomo
Written by
Delfina Utomo
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Like trends, some Singlish terms fade away, never to be heard again. Sometimes it's a good thing. But like trends, they may make a comeback one day – who knows? We dig out some absolute classics from the very heavy, and very thick Singlish dictionary. You decide if you want to start using it again – or if you think it is just too 'orbit' to hear it out loud again. 

RECOMMENDED Common Singlish words you need to know to speak like a local

Onz (ohns)
Photograph: British Council Singapore/Flickr

Onz (ohns)

Meaning It can be used to describe someone who is super enthusiastic or overly keen. 

Example "She's so onz about the trip she started planning a year ago."

Abuden (ah-buh-then)

Meaning It is a combination of the Hokkien 'a -bo' (which means 'if not') and the word "then". 'Abuden' is usually used sarcastically as a response to an obvious question, like 'duh'.\

Example "Do we have to get tested for Covid-19 before we fly overseas?" "Abuden!"

 

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Mugger/mugging
Photograph: Unsplash/Tonny Tran

Mugger/mugging

Meaning Nothing to do with getting robbed, 'mugging' is another word for studying and 'mugger' is to describe a very studious person.

Example "He's a mugger lah, he'll be cramming all night. Don't bother asking him if he wants to join for supper."

Goondu (goon-doo)

Meaning Comes from the Tamil word for 'fat', but goondu is used to describe an idiot.

Example "Oh my god, she sent the wrong message to the boss on her first day. Damn goondu leh."

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Orbit
Photograph: Delfina Utomo

Orbit

Meaning For some reason, 'orbit' describes something which is old-fashioned and dowdy.

Example "Did you see what she wore to the wedding? So orbit, my grandmother dresses better!"

Tyco (tai-ko)

Meaning To be very lucky or fortunate, but used as a sarcastic remark. 

Example "Even though he didn't study for the test, he passed leh. Damn tyco one."

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Steady pom pi pi

Meaning Describes someone who is able to hold their composure, especially in stressful times.

Example "He's a good boss lah. We pulled through the recession because even though everywhere else is crashing, he still steady pom pi pi."

Want to speak more Singlish?

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