被窝里的快乐 (bèi wō lǐ de kuài lè)
Literally means 'happiness in the duvet'. It describes the comfort and joy of staying in bed, especially on lazy days.
Weekends are meant to enjoy happiness in the duvet; I don't want to go out.
This section of the Chinese Slang Dictionary focuses on Daily Life slang. Each entry includes the Chinese characters (汉字), pinyin pronunciation with tone marks, an English translation, at least one example sentence showing real usage, and cultural context explaining where the term comes from and how it is used. Terms are sorted by community popularity. Browse the full list below or use the search bar to find a specific term.
Literally means 'happiness in the duvet'. It describes the comfort and joy of staying in bed, especially on lazy days.
Weekends are meant to enjoy happiness in the duvet; I don't want to go out.
Meaning 'workaholic', this term is used to describe someone who is excessively devoted to their work, often to the detriment of personal life. It reflects modern work culture's pressures.
He’s truly a workaholic; he doesn’t rest on weekends either.
Referring to the '996 working hour system' (9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week), this term criticizes the grueling work culture many face, particularly in the tech industry. It highlights the unhealthy work-life balance pr...
Our company follows the 996 culture, and many people are very tired.
Translating to 'instant noodle hero', this term is humorously used to describe someone who frequently consumes instant noodles, often due to a busy lifestyle or lack of cooking skills. It can also evoke nostalgia for ...
In high school, I was an instant noodle hero; I only started learning to cook now.
Eating dirt - Being so broke you can only afford dirt.
After buying this I will be eating dirt.
Referring to spicy strips of snack food, this term has become a cultural symbol for youth trends and indulgence in junk food. It's often mentioned in a nostalgic or humorous context.
After school, we always go buy spicy strips to eat.
Alcohol-free socialising — going out, hanging with friends, and building connections without a drop of alcohol involved. Think mocktails, specialty teas, and coffee dates instead of bar rounds. A rising lifestyle tren...
Alcohol-free socialising is trending lately — let's switch to a specialty tea house for our catch-up.
Translating to 'no show' or 'no chance,' this term describes a situation where success seems unlikely. It's often used in a casual context to express skepticism about outcomes.
He has no chance in this exam; his preparation just isn't enough.
Translating to 'fishing for money,' this term refers to making money through various means, often implying opportunistic or quick ways to earn cash. It can carry both positive and negative connotations.
He has been making money online recently; business is good.
Translating to 'iron rice bowl,' this term refers to a stable, secure job that offers guaranteed income and benefits. It symbolizes job security in contrast to precarious employment.
Some people are just seeking that kind of stable job.
Emotional / Sad mood - Feeling down or emotional.
I am feeling a bit emo today.
This term literally means 'working person' and is used to refer to individuals who are part of the labor force, especially in low-paying jobs. It conveys a sense of camaraderie among workers who feel overworked and un...
As a working person, I strive every day for a better life.
This term means 'wasteful child' and is used to describe someone who squanders money carelessly or extravagantly. It reflects a negative judgment on reckless spending.
He is such a wasteful child; he spends money like there's no tomorrow.
Translating to 'moving bricks on a construction site,' it refers to hard and possibly low-paying work. It is often used humorously to describe people who work hard but earn little, especially in social media contexts.
Going to work feels like moving bricks on a construction site; it’s exhausting.
Translating to 'I don't want to go to work,' this phrase expresses burnout and reluctance towards work. It's commonly used among the younger generation feeling the pressures of job responsibilities.
Monday is here again, and I really don't want to go to work.
Sober curious — a mindset of consciously questioning your relationship with alcohol rather than quitting cold turkey. Someone who is 清醒好奇 isn't necessarily a non-drinker; they're curious about what life feels like wit...
I'm in a sober-curious phase right now — skipping drinks at parties whenever I can, and honestly I feel so much clearer.
Translating to 'happy life', this term emphasizes the pursuit of happiness and well-being in daily living. It encourages individuals to focus on positivity.
We should pursue a happy life and enjoy every day.
Translating to 'pandemic homebody', this term describes individuals who became accustomed to staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. It often has a humorous or relatable connotation, depicting the lifestyle chan...
I have turned into a pandemic homebody, and I feel uncomfortable going out.
Planting grass - Being influenced to want to buy something.
After watching her video I want to buy it.
Translates to 'completely let go', it describes a carefree attitude, often used when someone decides to stop worrying about responsibilities and just enjoy life.
The holiday is here, and I've decided to completely let go of myself.
Literally meaning 'deliver takeout,' this term is often used to describe working in the food delivery sector, but can also imply low-status jobs in a joking manner. It reflects a humorous view of gig economy jobs.
He’s delivering takeout now and starting his own business.
Literally meaning 'to pitfall one's father', this term is used to express frustration or disappointment when something is not as promised or goes wrong unexpectedly. It's a playful way to highlight being cheated or le...
The service at this restaurant is really disappointing; I've been waiting an hour and still no food.
Meaning 'seeking help online', this term describes the act of asking for assistance or advice through social media platforms. It reflects the growing trend of seeking community help in digital spaces.
I am seeking help online, hoping to receive some advice.
Referring to a specific lounging position made famous by Chinese actor Ge You, this term is used to describe a laid-back or lazy attitude towards life. It captures the essence of relaxation and casualness.
After a tiring day, I just want to lounge on the sofa.
To hustle; to grind for money; to chase the bag
No rest on weekends — I'm out here getting that money!
Not a single penny — the most direct Beijing way to say you are completely broke. Zir (子儿) is a Beijing dialect word for the smallest unit of money, so this means you literally have zero. Used to state financial reali...
My salary has not come in yet this month — I do not have a single penny.
Literally meaning 'to fly a plane,' this term is used informally to describe someone who travels quickly or impulsively, particularly for leisure or adventure.
This weekend, my friends and I impulsively flew to the beach.
Translating to 'small but certain happiness,' this term describes the little joys and pleasures in life that bring happiness. It emphasizes appreciating the small things that may seem inconsequential but influence ove...
Having a cup of coffee every day is my small but certain happiness.
Translating to 'refuse to yield even if beaten', this term describes a person who is determined and resilient despite adversity. It is often used to praise someone's strength of character.
Her spirit is unyielding even if beaten; we should learn from her.
Meaning 'fragile' or 'weak', this term is often used to describe someone who is emotionally sensitive. It has gained traction in discussions around mental health and vulnerability.
In this high-pressure society, many people feel fragile.
This phrase means 'return to reality' and is used to describe the need to stop daydreaming or being overly optimistic, often after a situation leads to disappointment. It implies a reminder to be pragmatic.
You can’t always fantasize about success; you need to return to reality.
This phrase means 'emotionally collapsed,' often used when someone feels overwhelmed or burdened by stress or negative feelings. It expresses a state of emotional exhaustion.
I'm so tired from work today; I feel emotionally collapsed.
Literally means 'whale swallowing'. It refers to someone or something that indiscriminately consumes or absorbs a large quantity of something, often used in the context of resources or knowledge.
He’s like a whale swallowing knowledge in his studies.
This term translates to 'extra surprise' and refers to unexpected, delightful occurrences that surpass expectations. It can be applied in various contexts, from gifts to personal achievements.
This trip had many extra surprises; I was so happy.
This term means 'to achieve one's wishes' and is often used when someone successfully attains something they desired. It encapsulates a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
As the New Year arrives, I hope everyone can realize their wishes.
Literally 'bad luck,' this term is used to express frustration over unfortunate events or circumstances. It conveys a sense of being jinxed or unfairly treated.
Today I’m really unlucky; I lost my wallet.
This phrase means 'let's start with a wave', often used when introducing something or initiating a discussion. It’s a playful way of engaging others.
Let's start the meeting with a warm-up.
Translates to 'clever ghost,' referring to someone who is quick-witted and smart, often used as a compliment to describe sharp individuals.
She is really a clever ghost; she always comes up with great ideas.
This term means 'warm' or 'buzzing with excitement,' often used to describe something that is fresh, trending, or lively, particularly in social or culinary contexts.
The dishes at this new restaurant are really buzzing with excitement; they taste great.
This phrase translates to 'lying down to make money', implying easy or passive income. It's frequently used in discussions about side hustles or investments that require little effort.
Now many people hope they can make money passively.
This term means 'to mix with society', referring to the experience of navigating social interactions and establishing one's place in social contexts. It often implies effort and adaptability.
In the workplace, mixing with society is an important skill.
Meaning 'to compare', this term is generally used in a negative context when people measure their success or possessions against others. It reflects societal pressures and competitiveness.
In this society, the phenomenon of comparison is becoming more serious.
Translating to 'meat pie falling from the sky', this phrase refers to unexpected good fortune or luck, often in a sarcastic sense. It implies that one should not expect free gifts or success without hard work.
Success doesn’t come from meat pies falling from the sky; it requires hard work.
Translating to 'heavy reliance,' this term describes a person or situation that heavily depends on something or someone else, especially in a humorous or exaggerated context.
I'm heavily reliant on this software; I can't live without it.
This term refers to 'young rich kids' or affluent youth, often used to describe those who display wealth without much regard for effort. It's sometimes used derogatorily to criticize spoiled behavior.
Look at those young rich kids; their spending is so casual.
Yeah, that's right / uh-huh — a distinctly Beijing affirmative sound used to agree, confirm, or acknowledge. More casual and warm than a standard 对 (correct). Unmistakably northern Chinese and a strong marker of genui...
You said we are meeting tomorrow? Uh-huh, I will message you then.
Translating to 'self-doubt,' this term captures feelings of uncertainty about one’s abilities or worth. It resonates with young adults facing pressures of success and often appears in motivational contexts.
In the workplace, self-doubt is a common feeling shared by many.
Translating to 'home man/home woman', these terms refer to individuals who prefer staying at home and often engage in hobbies like gaming, watching movies, or reading. They are often associated with a subculture that ...
He's a typical home guy, spending weekends at home playing games.
This term translates to 'model student' and is used to describe someone who excels in their studies or exhibits exemplary behavior. It reflects admiration for academic dedication and success.
He is always regarded as a model student in the class; everyone admires him.
This term means 'filial piety' and describes the respect and devotion children show towards their parents. It reflects a cultural value deeply ingrained in Chinese society.
He is a very filial child, often helping his parents.
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