Did you know that Singlish words like “shiok”, “sabo” and “kiasu” are in the Oxford English Dictionary? Our (unofficial) national language is convenient, simple and encapsulates the idea of the cultural melting pot Singapore is – one where different races, religions and ethnicities come together to form their own identity.

Design: Lah

Translation: expression to convey exasperation and/or affirmation

“Ok lah” → “okay, sure”

“See lah!” → “look at what you’ve done!”

“Sorry lah” → “I’m sorry…” (disgruntled tone)