Those of us who have lived in Singapore for some time have got used to the colloquial English spoken here. However, first time visitors to SIWW may find that Singlish takes bit of getting used to.

One very useful term is  ‘lah’ which has many meanings and applications. Here are a few examples by way of illustration:

 ”There’s something here for everyone lah.” (“There IS something here for everyone.”)

“OK lah, bye bye.” (“OK then, bye bye.”)

“My husband’s not at home lah. ” (” My husband is not at home, you understand.”)

“Give me your morning price  lah?” (“Your asking price is too high, I am afraid. You need be prepared to offer me a lower one. I know you have not had any customers yet and are unlikely to all day. So get real!”)

…and my favourite….

British Ang Moh (foreigner) to a newspaper vendor –  

” I say my man, may I please purchase a copy of today’s Straits Times?”     

Newspaper vendor’s response -

 ’Can lah!” (of course)

It’s all so economical and efficient and makes perfect sense. 

Try it lah!

Posted by: Gerry O’Toole