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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 '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 '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.
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.
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.
Eating dirt - Being so broke you can only afford dirt.
After buying this I will be eating dirt.
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.
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 '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.
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.
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.
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.
To hustle; to grind for money; to chase the bag
No rest on weekends — I'm out here getting that money!
Emotional / Sad mood - Feeling down or emotional.
I am feeling a bit emo today.
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.
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.
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.
Planting grass - Being influenced to want to buy something.
After watching her video I want to buy it.
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 '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.
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.
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.
Meaning 'online', this term signifies being connected to the internet or active on social media. It's often used in discussions about presence in the digital space.
I'm online now; feel free to ask me anything.
Translating to 'one-man show,' this term is used to describe situations where someone is handling everything alone, often in a dramatic or overwhelming way. It’s used humorously when someone overworks themselves in so...
She is truly putting on a one-woman show, doing everything by herself.
Translating to 'Engine Oil', this term refers to someone who is very knowledgeable and skilled, often in a technical field. It is used as a compliment for those who know their craft very well.
This teacher is really knowledgeable; the explanations are thorough.
This phrase translates to 'spending money like water,' used to describe someone who spends money extravagantly or carelessly. It serves as a critique of financial irresponsibility.
He spends money like water and doesn't care at all.
This phrase means 'so-so' or 'mediocre,' used to describe something that is not bad but also not great. It conveys a sense of indifference towards quality.
This movie is so-so; there's nothing special about it.
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 '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.
This phrase translates to 'a bit interesting' and is used to express curiosity or intrigue about something, often in a light-hearted or humorous context.
This story is a bit interesting; I want to hear more.
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 phrase means 'not unreasonable,' used to express that while something may not be ideal, it’s understandable or justifiable. It’s often used in discussions to show acceptance of imperfect situations.
Facing this pressure, it is not unreasonable for them to choose to give up.
This term refers to the overall atmosphere or vibe in a particular situation, often used in the context of social gatherings, art, or design. It highlights the importance of setting.
The atmosphere in this coffee shop is great, making me feel relaxed.
This term conveys a feeling of pleasure or satisfaction, often used to respond positively to something delightfully surprising. It reflects a sense of enjoyment.
I just had an ice cream; it felt really satisfying.
Translating to 'not asking for others', this term describes a self-sufficient attitude where one prefers to rely on oneself rather than depend on others for help or support.
I prefer to be self-sufficient and solve my problems myself.
Literally means 'Auntie has come' and refers to a woman’s menstrual period. It’s a euphemistic way of mentioning it to avoid directness.
I might not be available today; Auntie has come.
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.
Literally 'milk tea is top-notch', this phrase expresses a strong affection for milk tea, which is immensely popular among young people. It represents the culture of enjoying bubble tea outings.
Let's go have some top-notch milk tea today!
Literally meaning 'pressure mountain big,' it describes feeling overwhelmed or heavily stressed. It's a humorous exaggeration that has become popular among young people.
Work and studying make me feel overwhelmed; I want a holiday.
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.
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.
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.
Translating to 'all night until dawn,' this phrase describes staying up all night, especially for activities like gaming or studying. It highlights a culture of late-night dedication and commitment.
For this project, I stayed up all night until dawn.
This term means 'street vending' and describes the act of setting up a stall to sell goods or food, typically in a public space. It's often associated with entrepreneurship and the hustle culture.
I've decided to set up a stall this weekend to sell some handmade accessories.
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