Kiasu

Pronunciation: /kiˈɑsu/

Definitions of kiasu

adjective a Singaporean term derived from a Hokkien dialect meaning afraid to lose or miss out, often used to describe someone who is overly competitive or eager to succeed

Example Sentences

A1 She is kiasu when it comes to getting good grades in school.

A2 The kiasu attitude of always wanting to be the best can be stressful.

B1 His kiasu behavior in the workplace can sometimes be off-putting to his colleagues.

B2 The kiasu mentality of always wanting to win can drive some people to succeed.

C1 Her kiasu nature pushes her to constantly strive for perfection in everything she does.

C2 The kiasu culture in certain societies can create a competitive environment that motivates individuals to excel.

Examples of kiasu in a Sentence

formal The kiasu attitude among students in Singapore is evident in their relentless pursuit of academic excellence.

informal My aunt is so kiasu, she always has to be the first in line for everything.

slang Don't be so kiasu lah, just relax and enjoy the moment.

figurative His kiasu nature extends beyond just material possessions, he always wants to be ahead in every aspect of his life.

Grammatical Forms of kiasu

• past tense: kiasued
• plural: kiasus
• comparative: more kiasu
• superlative: most kiasu
• present tense: kiasus
• future tense: will kiasu
• perfect tense: have kiasued
• continuous tense: is kiasuing
• singular: kiasu
• positive degree: kiasu
• infinitive: to kiasu
• gerund: kiasuing
• participle: kiasued

Origin and Evolution of kiasu

First Known Use: 1950 year

Language of Origin: Hokkien dialect

Story behind the word: The word 'kiasu' originated in Singapore and is derived from the Hokkien dialect, a Chinese dialect commonly spoken in Southeast Asia.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a fear of losing out or being left behind, 'kiasu' has evolved to also encompass a competitive and overly eager attitude in various aspects of life.