‘Lah’ is every Malaysian’s favourite and most frequently used suffix. This simple slang term is used to express affirmation, dismissal, exasperation or even exclamation in different contexts, and has become a permanent fixture in our everyday lingo.
Here are some examples of using ‘lah in our daily lives:
• “Can lah!” or “Okay lah!” = Saying yes to a request.
• “What lah!” or “Why lah!” = Expressing frustration.
• “Come here lah!” or “Sit down here lah!” = Softening a command.
• “Cannot lah” or “Tak boleh lah” = Softening a rejection.
‘Lah’ does not necessarily have to come at the end of a sentence, for example:
• No fun-lah, you! = You’re really no fun at all!
• You see-lah, like that also you cannot do! = Can’t you even complete a simple task?
• Why-lah you go and do that? = Why did you have to do that?
The overuse of ‘lah’ at the end of every other word in a phrase is a typical blunder. Knowing where to apply the suffix correctly can give your speech a nuance that Malaysians would enjoy. With enough time and practice, you will soon be able to use it properly lah!