Oxford English Dictionary Officially Incorporates Singlish Terms Including BTO and Jialat in Major March Update

The Oxford English Dictionary adds BTO, jialat, and kaypoh to its March 2026 update, recognizing 11 Singlish and Malaysian terms in its latest global expansion.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 25, 2026, 8:36 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from AsiaOne

Global Recognition for Singaporean Linguistic Identity

The latest quarterly update to the Oxford English Dictionary has provided a significant boost to the cultural standing of Singlish by formally inducting several widely used regional terms. On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the dictionary added over 500 new entries, including 11 words that trace their linguistic roots directly to Singapore and Malaysia. This inclusion signifies a growing academic acceptance of localized English variations, validating the everyday speech of millions who use these terms to navigate social and civic life in Southeast Asia.

The Evolution of the BTO Milestone

One of the most notable additions is the term BTO, which the dictionary defines both as the Housing Development Board's official build to order scheme and as a functional verb. The entry highlights a unique cultural nuance, noting that applying for a flat under this scheme is frequently discussed in the context of a couple's relationship status. In Singaporean society, to BTO has become a linguistic shorthand for reaching a significant romantic milestone, often viewed as being synonymous with a formal engagement or a long term commitment to a shared future.

Refining the Definitions of Jialat and Kaypoh

The update also provides precise definitions for descriptive terms like jialat and kaypoh, which have transitioned from informal slang to recognized vocabulary. While jialat was traditionally used to describe something tiresome or exhausting, the dictionary now reflects its modern usage as an adjective for a dire or deteriorating situation. Similarly, kaypoh has been categorized as a versatile word that functions as a noun, adjective, and verb to describe prying or meddlesome behavior. These entries ensure that the specific emotional and social weight of these words is accurately preserved for a global audience.