Singaporean, Hong Kong terms added to Oxford Dictionary

Several Singaporean and Hong Kong English terms including “wah”, “shiok” and “yum cha” were added into the Oxford English Dictionary (OED).
With this these terms are now officially recognised as acceptable English. In the latest update, the Oxford English Dictionary has added 19 Singaporean terms and 13 Hong Kong terms.
Some of the words added are

  • Wah: It is an expression of delight or surprise.
  • Shiok: It means cool, great, delicious, superb.
  • Yum cha: It is a type of Chinese brunch.
  • Wet market: It is a market selling fresh meat and produce.
  • Blur: It means confused or ignorant.
  • Sabo: It means to harm or play a prank on.
  • Sandwich class: It is an informal term used to refer to the middle class
  • Milk tea: It is a drink made from black tea and milk, usually evaporated or condensed.
  • Shroff: It is a cashier, especially at a car park.

The dictionary included formations of English that are mostly used in Singapore or Hong Kong. The OED records the meaning and development of the English language.


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