Kiasu
Kiasu is a Hokkien word that denotes a "grasping, selfish attitude" that arises from fear of missing out.Etymology and usage
Kiasu comes from the vernacular Chinese phrase 怕输, meaning 'fear of losing’. It is commonly used in Singapore and has been introduced into the English language by speakers of colloquial Singaporean English. It is often used to refer to anxious, selfish behaviour characterised by a fear of "missing out" or "losing out".
Kiasu is similar in etymology to kiasi, and both terms are used to describe similar behaviour. Kiasu or kiasu-ism means taking extreme measures to achieve success, whereas kiasi or kiasi-ism means taking extreme measures to avoid risk.
