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.
Translating to 'dormitory economy', this term refers to a trend where students or young adults monetize their living spaces, often by creating content or running small businesses from their dorms. It reflects the entr...
Many people are now engaging in dormitory economies, using their spaces to make money.
This term means 'to roll' and is used to describe the competitive pressure in various aspects of life, such as education or work. It reflects the feeling of being caught in an endless cycle of competition.
Students today are very competitive; everyone is studying hard.
Literally means 'working salary', this term highlights discussions around wage issues faced by workers today, symbolizing the struggles and hopes of the working class.
The working salary is too low; life is getting harder.
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.
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.
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.
Translates to 'monthly salary tribe.' This term is used to refer to individuals who work for a fixed monthly salary and often live paycheck to paycheck. It highlights the struggles of many young workers in urban envir...
As a monthly salary tribe member, I budget carefully every month.
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.
To hash something out, argue through every detail — a Beijing word for lengthy, thorough discussion of a matter, often with a tinge of exasperation. Can mean let's work this out or stop over-explaining depending on co...
We need to hash this out properly — what exactly do you mean?
Literally means 'master of self-discipline'. It's an ironic term often used to refer to someone who tries hard to stay disciplined but fails, highlighting the struggle of maintaining self-control.
I decided to go to the gym every week, but in the end, I became a master of self-discipline for not going.
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 literally means 'market crash' but has evolved to describe situations where things go wrong dramatically or fail catastrophically, often used humorously in everyday scenarios.
I didn't review at all for this exam; it looks like I'm going to crash again.
Translating to 'Buddha-like life', this term describes a laid-back approach to life where one goes with the flow and doesn't stress about outcomes, often considered a healthy mindset.
I'm living a Buddha-like life now, trying not to force things.
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.
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.
The 996 work schedule — working from 9am to 9pm, 6 days a week. The symbol of overwork culture and labor exploitation in China's tech industry. Sparked massive national debate about workers' rights.
The 996 schedule is completely normal at this company — there's no life outside work.
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 'the outside scene', this term is often used to describe a situation where external appearances are misleading, highlighting the contrast between surface beauty and underlying issues.
The outside scene seems beautiful, but internally there are many troubles.
Translating to 'snack demon,' this term describes someone who loves to eat snacks excessively, often to an endearing extreme. It reflects a playful attitude towards food, particularly in a humorous context.
I'm really a snack demon; I just want to eat something all the time.
Literally 'learn now and sell now', this phrase describes a situation where someone quickly learns a skill or information just to use it immediately, often used humorously regarding unpreparedness.
I went to the interview today, completely learning on the fly.
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.
Working 24/7 with zero days off — the extreme beyond 996. 007 means working from 0am to 0am, 7 days a week: never stopping. Used ironically to describe the most grueling work environments.
Our team is on 007 — didn't even get the weekend off last week.
This term means 'cheating' and is commonly used to describe dishonest behavior, especially in academic or competitive contexts. It can also be used humorously in non-serious situations.
Today's exam was really difficult; it was tough to pass without cheating.
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.
Happy water - Coca-Cola or sugary drinks.
Get me some happy water!
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.
Meaning 'to go in circles', this term describes a situation where someone is confused or unable to make progress. It often gently mocks a lack of direction in a humorous way.
I’m totally going in circles on this question; I can’t figure it out at all.
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.
Translating to 'seeking fun,' this term is often used to describe the act of looking for entertainment or engaging in silly behavior.
During the holiday, it’s all about seeking fun!
This phrase means 'boiling hot' or 'in full swing', used to describe something that is vibrant, enthusiastic, and engaging. It reflects a positive energy surrounding events or activities.
The atmosphere at the party was vibrant; everyone was happy.
Translating to 'iron cage', this slang describes a situation where people feel trapped in a rigid social or economic system, often used to discuss work-life balance and societal pressures.
I feel like working in this city is like being in an iron cage.
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 term means 'by the way' or 'while you're at it,' often used to indicate taking an additional action while doing something else. It reflects a casual, efficient approach to multitasking.
I will go to the supermarket and by the way, buy some fruit.
Absolutely fantastic, top notch — a very Beijing way to say something is excellent. 倍儿 is a Beijing 儿化 intensifier meaning super or extra, and 棒 means great. Quintessential hutong slang for something impressively good.
Today's meal was absolutely fantastic — even better than a restaurant.
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.
Meaning 'atmosphere,' this term describes the mood or feeling in a particular setting, especially in social situations. It’s crucial in discussions about events and gatherings.
The atmosphere of this party is very good; everyone is happy.
Translates to 'emotion value', this term refers to the emotional state or the perceived emotional health of individuals. It's often discussed in relation to mental health and well-being on social media platforms.
Recently, my emotional value is a bit low; I need to go out more.
Translating to 'at most', this phrase indicates that the worst outcome is not as serious as it seems. It provides a sense of reassurance and encourages taking risks.
If I fail, at most I can try again.
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.
Translating to 'milk tea shop', this term represents a trendy space associated with socializing and enjoying new flavors, often reflecting the popular milk tea culture in China. It’s often referenced in social media p...
Let's go to the milk tea shop after work!
Translating to 'unlock new skills,' this term describes acquiring new talents or experiences, often used in a humorous context to announce personal achievements or growth.
Recently, I unlocked a new skill: I learned how to bake cakes.
Literally 'empty nest youth', this term describes young adults who live alone, often away from their families. It addresses the loneliness and challenges they face while adapting to independent life.
As an empty nest youth, I sometimes feel lonely.
Translating to 'I do things my way,' this phrase is used to express a strong sense of individuality and independence, often in contexts where one refuses to conform to societal expectations.
He always does things his way, never caring about others' opinions.
Introvert - MBTI introvert type person.
I am an introvert, do not like socializing.
Meaning 'decided,' this term indicates a firm conclusion or resolution about something, often used in contexts of making important life choices or plans.
I decided to go on a trip to relax a bit.
Pulling grass - Finally buying something you wanted.
Finally bought this bag I wanted.
This phrase means 'everything is hard at the beginning,' emphasizing that starting any new endeavor can be challenging. It encourages perseverance and resilience.
Starting this project will definitely have difficulties; everything is hard at the beginning.
This phrase translates to 'working to earn baby formula money', often used humorously to describe working hard for basic needs or to support family. It highlights the struggles of balancing work and family life.
I work every day to earn baby formula money; it’s not easy.
Translates to 'hot pot culture.' This term encapsulates the social aspect of dining in a hot pot restaurant, where people gather around a communal pot to cook and share food. It's popular among friends and family for ...
We are going to experience hot pot culture this weekend!
Meaning 'detective novels', this term is often used to refer to mystery stories that involve solving a crime. It's popular among reading communities and those who enjoy puzzles.
I've been reading detective novels lately and really enjoy the puzzle-solving aspect.
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