Chimbridge Singlish Dictionary

definitions

verb

1. to cut in and take something away from somebody else, especially a girlfriend or boyfriend, but also e.g. a spot in a queue, an opportunity, etc.

The bertunang (Malay engagement) used to be a grand occassion. It was to tell people that the couple was betrothed, and that no third party could potong jalan ...

— 1992 July 13, Angeline Song (quoting Muhammad Ariff Ahmad). The New Paper, "Engagement? Nah, just do it". p.7

Michelle's friend would inform her if another butch tried to move in on her. Michelle would then confront the interloper and say, 'You potong jalan is it? Are you trying to steal her friendship from me?'

— 1999 October 2, Toh Li Lin (quoting Michelle). The Straits Times, "Should parents worry about this girl-girl thing?". p.12