The next time someone tells you that your English is really jialat, you can get one up on them by showing them that jialat is a real English word. The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has been updated on Tuesday (March 24) with over 500 new words, including 11 entries with a Singaporean or Malaysian English etymology. Among them are some standout additions in BTO, jialat and kaypoh, with ice kacang no doubt being an honourable mention as a delectable and iconic dessert in both Singapore and Malaysia. The other additions are: assam laksa, agak-agak, boleh, degazette, Mat Salleh, play play and wayang. BTO, or build-to-order, refers to the Housing Development Board's (HDB) scheme wherein HDB flats are built for Singapore citizens. However, it can also be used as a verb, referring to the act of applying for a flat under the scheme, according to OED. The dictionary also states that the word is «often used when discussing a couple's relationship status, as applying for a flat together under the BTO scheme is seen as an important milestone, similar to an engagement.»  Read more