particle

lah

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Lah (particle) means a sentence-ending word used in Singapore/Malaysia English and similar varieties to add emphasis, reassurance, or a casual, friendly tone. Example: “Don't worry lah, everything will work out.”

particle

A sentence-ending word used in Singapore/Malaysia English and similar varieties to add emphasis, reassurance, or a casual, friendly tone.

"Don't worry lah, everything will work out."

"It's fine lah, no need to apologise."

How to use lah

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA small word added to the end of a sentence in Singlish and similar dialects to soften a statement or add emotional colour.

When to use it

Informal and regional — common in Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong English, but not standard in most other English varieties.

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “lah” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Don't worry _____, everything will work out.

Etymology

Borrowed from Malay lah and reinforced by similar particles in Hokkien and Cantonese, all used to add emphasis or soften a statement.

Origin: Cantonese

Rhymes for lah

blah

See all rhymes for lah →

Frequently asked questions

What does “lah” mean?

The word “lah” means a sentence-ending word used in Singapore/Malaysia English and similar varieties to add emphasis, reassurance, or a casual, friendly tone. In plain terms, a small word added to the end of a sentence in Singlish and similar dialects to soften a statement or add emotional colour.

How do you pronounce “lah”?

“Lah” is pronounced lah (/lɑː/ in IPA).

How do you use “lah” in a sentence?

Here is “lah” used in a sentence: “Don't worry lah, everything will work out.”

What part of speech is “lah”?

“Lah” is a particle.

Where does the word “lah” come from?

The word “lah” comes from Cantonese. Borrowed from Malay lah and reinforced by similar particles in Hokkien and Cantonese, all used to add emphasis or soften a statement.

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Words with Chinese origins