* Singlish is a largely spoken creole, and as such descriptivism (recording forms that reflect actual pronunciation in spoken language, or as appearing in the linguistic corpus) is more pertinent than strict prescriptivism. Nevertheless, the use of more standard forms (or for words originating in languages with Latin script, such as Malay, accurate to the original spelling) is recommended and encouraged.
also can:
bo sia bosia
bohsia
→
Malay:
bohsia
definitions
noun
- (derogatory) a young, delinquent, promiscuous (usually Malay) woman who parties, does drugs, drinks, goes clubbing, seeks casual sex with multiple sexual partners (especially men that are perceived to be wealthy, for compensation), etc.
The particular 'bohsia' incarnation that has caused the most consternation is the original stereotype of a young girl from a comfortable background spending her time in and around large shopping malls and standing at strategic locations to attract the attention of older men cruising by, either on large expensive motorcycles or luxury cars. Neither the man nor the girl says anything as she accepts a ride, and the implicit deal is done.
— 2010, Yeeshan Yang. Whispers and Moans: Interviews with the Men and Women of Hong Kong's Sex Industry. Blacksmith Books. ISBN: 9789628673285. p.191
These songs, by male groups and musicians, reflected the official condemnatory view of bohsia, with cautionary lyrics directed at young women.
— 2010, Eric C. Thompson. "The USA in Malaysian Music", in Global Goes Local: Popular Culture in Asia. UBC Press. ISBN: 9780774859790. p.71
usage notes
Rarer in Singapore; borrowed from Manglish or Malaysian Malay slang. Female equivalent of a bohjan.