Ki∙a∙su \ kiaⁿ-su\ n:
1. Afraid to lose out to others. Always wanting the upper hand or something for free. [1]
2. Literally “fear of losing” (Hokkien, Mandarin). [2]
Where first seen or heard:
When: Early 2005
Usage in a sentence: “Sometimes I think Singaporeans will appreciate the kiasu approach of Long Islanders when it comes to driving- cutting off people, running red lights, driving on the shoulder, driving without lights on in the rain, driving with high beams, anything to get to their destination faster- of course without the rule-breaking.”
[1] An Essential Guide to Singlish.
[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiasu
did you know that kiasi in kiswahili means something else?
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