What does hawk tuah mean in slang Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/hɔːk tuːɑː/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A term used in Malayan slang, specifically in Peninsular Malaysia, to refer to something that is old, worn out, or no longer useful, often used to describe an object or concept that has surpassed its relevance or usefulness.

Examples

• This old phone is haw tuah, let’s upgrade to a new one.
• This outdated technology is haw tuah, we need something more efficient.

Synonyms

• Outdated
• Worn out
• Obsolete

Etymology

The term “hawk tuah” is believed to have originated from the Hokkien Chinese dialect, in which “haw” means “old” or “aged”, and “tuah” means “broken” or “unusable”. Over time, the term was adopted into Malay by Malay speakers, especially in Peninsular Malaysia.

Usage Notes

When using the term “hawk tuah”, it’s essential to consider the context and audience. In informal settings, such as with friends or in casual conversations, the term is often used to describe something that’s no longer useful. However, in formal or professional settings, it’s best to avoid using the term and opt for more precise language.

Cultural References

The term “hawk tuah” has gained popularity through social media, especially on Malaysian and Southeast Asian internet forums. It has also been used in various local memes and jokes, showcasing its widespread use and recognition.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Rubbish, haw tuah
• This thing is haw tuah, let’s throw it away

Related Words or Phrases

• 古董 (gǔ dèng) – old or antique objects in Mandarin Chinese
• Bahen – a Malay term for something that’s worn out or broken

Collocations

• haw tuah something/thing
• haw tuah system/process
• haw tuah idea/concept

Frequency of Use

The term “hawk tuah” is relatively common in modern Malay language, especially among younger generations and online communities. Its frequency of use has increased significantly in recent years, especially due to social media and internet forums.

Common Misspellings

• Hawk Tooah
• Hawk Tuahh
• Hawttua