Daily Life Chinese Slang — 954+ Terms with Pinyin & English — Page 11 | Chinese Slang

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.

Daily Life Slang Terms

剁手 (duò shǒu)

Chopping hands - Shopping addiction, need to chop hands to stop.

The hand-chopping squad is back for Singles Day.

闹心 (nào xīn)

Literally meaning 'to disturb the heart,' this term is used to express feelings of annoyance or frustration, particularly when something bothers you deeply. It captures a sense of emotional turmoil.

This matter is truly annoying, making it hard for me to concentrate.

自我修养 (zì wǒ xiū yǎng)

Translating to 'self-cultivation,' this term refers to the practice of personal development and self-improvement. It signifies a commitment to enhancing one's character and abilities over time.

I'm working hard to improve my self-cultivation by reading more books.

暴瘦 (bào shòu)

Meaning 'to lose weight dramatically,' this slang is often used in humorous contexts regarding sudden changes in someone’s physical appearance. It can also refer to stress-induced weight loss.

He has been working so hard lately that he unexpectedly lost ten pounds.

只想安静地做自己 (zhǐ xiǎng ān jìng de zuò zì jǐ)

Translating to 'just want to quietly be myself,' this phrase reflects a desire for peace and solitude, often used when feeling overwhelmed by external pressures. It's a declaration of self-care.

I just want to quietly be myself and don't want to deal with all this socializing.

护肤狂魔 (hù fū kuáng mó)

Translating to 'skincare maniac,' this term is used to describe someone who is extremely passionate about skincare routines and products. It highlights the growing culture of beauty and self-care among younger generat...

She's a skincare maniac; she shares new products every day.

颓废 (tuí fèi)

Translating to 'slump' or 'languish,' this term describes a state of hopelessness or lack of motivation. It's often associated with a feeling of being stuck or lost.

Recently, I’ve been feeling a bit down and unmotivated.

眼光独到 (yǎnguāng dútào)

This expression means 'unique insight' and is used to praise someone's ability to see things differently or recognize talent or potential in others. It's often applied in professional and creative contexts.

She has unique insight when choosing actors.

缺钱 (quē qián)

Meaning 'lack of money,' this term is a humorous way to refer to financial constraints or being broke. It's often expressed in a light-hearted manner, often used in memes and jokes.

I've really been lacking money lately, I need to find a way to earn some.

劈柴 (pīchái)

Literally 'to chop wood', this slang refers to someone who is hardworking and diligent, particularly in study or work. It's often used to describe students pulling all-nighters or people grinding through their jobs.

To do well on the exam, he works hard in the library every day.

充电宝式人生 (chōngdiànbǎo shì rénshēng)

Translates to 'power bank-style life'. It describes living life in a way that is always 'charging up' to be ready for the next big moment, much like how a power bank keeps devices charged. This term can symbolize opti...

I hope my life can be like a power bank-style life, always full of energy.

清理 (qīnglǐ)

This term means 'to clean up' and can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, such as decluttering thoughts or social media feeds. It reflects a desire for simplicity and organization.

I need to clean up my social media.

回炉 (huí lú)

Literally 'return to the furnace,' this phrase is used to describe a situation where something is sent back for improvement or rework, often in a humorous or critical context. It highlights the need for refinement.

This paper needs to go back for revising; many parts need to be rewritten.

好好学习 (hǎo hǎo xué xí)

Translating to 'study hard', this phrase is often used humorously or as motivation in academic contexts. It can convey encouragement or sarcasm, depending on the situation.

You need to study hard and not waste time like I do.

借东风 (jiè dōng fēng)

Meaning 'to borrow the east wind', this phrase signifies using an opportunity or favorable situation to achieve a goal. It reflects the idea of leveraging external factors for personal gain.

I borrowed the east wind in the competition and successfully won first place.

猫奴 (māo nú)

Literally translating to 'cat slave,' this term is used to describe someone who is completely devoted to their pet cat, often at the expense of their own time and resources. It reflects the growing trend of pet owners...

I am really a cat slave; I buy delicious food for my cat every day.

宅男 (zhái nán)

Otaku guy - A guy who stays home with hobbies.

My boyfriend is a homebody.

忐忑 (tǎn tè)

Translating to 'anxious' or 'uneasy', this term describes a state of nervous anticipation, often used before significant events like exams or interviews. It captures the emotional tension of uncertainty.

I'm feeling anxious about the upcoming interview.

翻身 (fān shēn)

Meaning 'turning over,' it conveys the idea of making a comeback or overcoming a challenging situation. This term is often used to describe someone finally achieving success after hardship.

After much effort, I've finally turned my situation around.

瓜分 (guā fēn)

Literally meaning 'to share a melon', this term refers to dividing or sharing resources, often in the context of benefits or profits. It's used in discussions about financial gains or relationships.

Let's share this bonus together.

小龙虾 (xiǎo lóng xiā)

Referring to 'small crayfish,' this term has become popular in food culture, often representing popular snack foods enjoyed by young people, especially during summer gatherings.

In summer, we always enjoy gathering to eat crayfish.

打杂 (dǎ zá)

Translating to 'doing odd jobs', this term refers to performing various low-level tasks or jobs, often without specific expertise or significance. It's commonly used in discussions about work situations.

In the company, I’m responsible for doing odd jobs; I have a lot of errands to run.

赶海 (gǎn hǎi)

To chase the sea means to explore the beach or the sea during low tide for treasures or unique finds. It's associated with leisure activities and enjoying nature.

This weekend, I plan to chase the sea and see if I can find something good.

偷懒 (tōu lǎn)

Translating to 'slack off', this term describes the act of avoiding work or responsibilities, often humorously. It reflects a common desire to relax or take breaks from intense workloads.

Today, I've decided to slack off and do nothing.

泡面人生 (pào miàn rén shēng)

Translating to 'instant noodle life,' this slang describes a lifestyle that lacks variety or excitement, often used humorously to emphasize mundane routines. It's relatable for those who lead busy or unremarkable lives.

My recent life feels like an instant noodle life, bland and flavorless.

寸头 (cùn tóu)

This term refers to a buzz cut or very short hairstyle that is particularly popular among young men. It symbolizes a straightforward and no-nonsense attitude, often associated with simplicity and cleanliness.

His new buzz cut makes him look tidy and sharp.

火锅控 (huǒ guō kòng)

Translating to 'hot pot enthusiast', this term describes someone who is obsessed with eating hot pot or enjoys it frequently. It's often used casually to express a love for this popular cuisine.

I'm truly a hot pot enthusiast; I have to eat it several times a week.

抖音式放松 (dǒu yīn shì fàng sōng)

Refers to the quick, light-hearted relaxation methods commonly showcased on Douyin, emphasizing short, engaging content for stress relief. It signifies a shift in how people unwind.

Work is too tiring; I need a quick Douyin-style relaxation.

虚无 (xū wú)

Translating to 'nihility' or 'void,' this term is used to describe feelings of emptiness or profound existential thoughts. It’s often contemplated in contexts of melancholy or philosophical discussions.

I’ve been feeling a sense of emptiness lately.

般若 (bō rě)

Originally a Buddhist term, it represents wisdom and understanding. In slang usage, it refers to someone who acts wisely or makes clever decisions in tricky situations.

Seeing her ability to handle problems, she truly embodies wisdom.

炸鸡 (zhà jī)

Translating to 'fried chicken,' this term is often used in a fun context to reference comfort food. It has gained traction as a metaphor for feeling good or enjoying one's life.

Let's go eat fried chicken tonight!

处于 (chǔ yú)

Translating to 'to be in', it often refers to a state or condition someone is currently experiencing. It's commonly used when discussing life situations or challenges.

I am currently in a very confused stage of my life.

精致贫困 (jīng zhì pín kùn)

This phrase translates to 'delicately poor' and describes people who live an aesthetically pleasing lifestyle or maintain an expensive appearance despite financial struggles. It highlights the contrast between appeara...

Although she’s not financially well-off, she still lives a delicately poor life.

动手 (dòng shǒu)

Meaning 'to take action', this term is used to encourage someone to start or engage in an activity, often used in a humorous context. It can imply both physical action and taking initiative.

Stop hesitating and take action.

扎心 (zhā xīn)

Heart-stabbing / Ouch - When something hits too close to home emotionally.

What he said really hurt.

及时行乐 (jí shí xíng lè)

Translating to 'seize the joy in time,' this term emphasizes the importance of enjoying life in the moment, often advocating for hedonism or mindfulness in everyday experiences.

Life is hard; we should seize the joy in time.

中年危机 (zhōng nián wēi jī)

Translating to 'midlife crisis,' it's used to refer to the feelings of uncertainty and dissatisfaction that come with aging. It's often discussed in humorous contexts among people discussing their lifestyles.

Whenever I think about the midlife crisis, I want to buy a car.

手动回忆 (shǒu dòng huí yì)

Translating to 'manual recall', this term is humorously used when someone is asked to remember something significant or nostalgic, often evoking a sentiment of longing or reflection.

When that song comes up, I’m manually recalling things from those years.

做佛 (zuò fó)

Translates to 'become a Buddha', used humorously to indicate someone is taking a nonchalant attitude towards their problems or responsibilities.

In the face of this failure, I've decided to just let it go and not overthink it.

姨母色 (yí mǔ sè)

Translating to 'aunt color', this term describes certain clothing colors or styles that are deemed unflattering or outdated. It’s often used in fashion discussions.

This color is a bit 'aunt color'; it doesn't really suit you.

okay (okay)

This term is borrowed from English and is used to affirm something or express agreement. It has become widely accepted in Chinese internet slang.

Are you going? Okay, I’ll go too.

老当益壮 (lǎo dāng yì zhuàng)

Translates to 'the old is even stronger', used to describe older individuals who remain active and engaged, defying age stereotypes. It emphasizes resilience and vitality.

Even though he is older, he remains vibrant and continues to work out.

玩命 (wán mìng)

Translating to 'playing with life', this expression refers to working extremely hard, often to the point of exhaustion. It highlights dedication and ambition, sometimes with a humorous tone.

He works extremely hard every day; it’s truly admirable.

发财 (fā cái)

Meaning 'to get rich', this term is often used to wish someone good fortune, especially during the New Year. It’s light-hearted and is meant to inspire optimism about financial success.

Wishing you wealth in the new year!

宝典 (bǎo diǎn)

Translating to 'treasure book,' this term is used to refer to a guide or resource that provides valuable tips or insights in a specific area, often related to lifestyle, study, or online culture.

This book is a treasure guide for writing; I've learned a lot from it.

暴熬夜 (bào áo yè)

This term literally means 'violent late-night staying up,' describing the act of staying up very late, often binge-watching shows or playing games, leading to poor health effects. It's often said in a humorous context...

I’m going to be late for work; I stayed up too late binge-watching a show last night.

自嗨 (zì hāi)

This term means 'self-amusement' and refers to someone who enjoys their own company or activities without needing validation or attention from others. It reflects a carefree attitude.

He amused himself at home by watching his own videos.

放养 (fàng yǎng)

Literally 'free-range,' this term describes a parenting or management style that allows for independence and freedom, often used in discussions about child-rearing or team leadership.

I take a free-range approach to parenting, hoping they can grow independently.

回归自然 (huí guī zì rán)

Translating to 'return to nature', it's a philosophy advocating for simplicity and living in harmony with nature. It reflects a lifestyle choice that values authentic experiences over materialism.

I hope to 'return to nature' and live a simple life.

打酱油 (dǎ jiàngyóu)

This phrase literally means 'buying soy sauce' but is used to refer to someone who is just passing through or not involved in something significant. It implies a level of detachment or indifference.

I’m just here to pass through at this gathering, not wanting to get too involved.

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