* 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:
chinchai cincai chin-chai chin chye
chin chai
→
Hokkien:
凊彩
poj:
chhìn-chhái
definitions
adjective
- anyhow; as one pleases; 'whatever goes'
- casual; unserious
- What drink you want?
- Chin chai lah, anything also can.
- Orhhh, chin chai then chin chow lor.
I thank her when we meet, adding that few people would be this accommodating. She looks embarrassed and says that she’s just chinchai ...
— 2024 May 13, Karishma Tulsidas. HerWorld, "Dr June Goh-Rin: The "chinchai" powerhouse of medicine, advocacy and art". https://www.herworld.com/pov/dr-june-goh-rin-the-chinchai-powerhouse-of-medicine-advocacy-and-art/
synonyms:
adverb
- casually; unseriously
- in any way or manner whatsoever; in a random fashion
Jafri was cautioned against acting and speaking so chin chai amongst the senior officers.
synonyms:
Can don't chinchai whack please. Choose properly lah.
synonyms:
particles
lah
effect:
disinterest; uncommittedness; casualness; halfheartedness
—
it's up to you; I don't care which one