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ti gong
* 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:
ti kong thih kong thi kong tee gong ti gong thi gong
tee kong
→
Hokkien:
铁管
鐵管
poj:
thih-kóng
definitions
noun
- an empty tin can, such as one formerly used to hold condensed milk, which is reused as a drink container. Such a can normally has the lid still attached at one end with a hole poked through its centre, through which a raffia string is threaded to be used as a handle (to prevent having to hold the hot drink can directly).
A drink can be ordered for takeaway in such a can by using the specifying adjective kong2.
To get it served in a condensed milk tin can, you will need to request it. ... In today’s era, it is a rarity to find coffee to be served in a ‘tee kong’.
— 2021 May 22, Mei Rei Qua. Singapore Foodie, "Coffee Stall At Choa Chu Kang Serves Traditional Kopi In Condensed Milk Tin Cans". https://singaporefoodie.com/85-degrees-coffee-condensed-milk-tin-cans/
synonyms:
usage notes
As plastic took over as the material for takeaway containers, first as baggies (pau) or modern drink cups (puay), the tee kong is becoming rarer and rarer, and is not an option at most drink stalls anymore (as the containers must be prepared beforehand). However, where they are available, they are still a great, environmentally-friendly way to help reuse and reduce.