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 '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.
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.
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.
Translating to 'burning', it signifies passion or enthusiasm for something, often used in contexts relating to hobbies, interests, or activism, indicating strong commitment.
I burn with passion every day, working hard for my dreams.
This term means 'miscellaneous talks' and refers to casual discussions or talks about various topics. It often implies a relaxed, informal conversation.
Tonight, let's have a miscellaneous talk about the recent hot topics.
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.
Special-forces tourism; ultra-efficient budget travel packing in maximum sights
He hit five cities in 48 hours — full special-forces tourism mode.
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 '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.
Translating to 'contemporary young people', this term describes the current generation of youth and their attitudes, habits, and challenges. It's often used in sociological discussions.
Contemporary young people have a very different perspective on work compared to the past.
Translating to 'place an order', this term is commonly used in e-commerce and online shopping contexts. It signifies making a purchase decision and is a routine part of online shopping culture.
I just placed an order for a new phone.
Literally 'hide and seek,' this term is used to describe avoiding responsibilities or hiding from situations, often humorously. It's a playful way to refer to someone who is ducking out of obligations.
He has been playing hide and seek lately, not wanting to work.
Literally 'Fragmented Time', this term refers to small amounts of free time that can be utilized for productive activities, often used in the context of self-improvement or studying.
Utilize fragmented time to study and improve yourself.
Literally means 'bargaining master.' It refers to someone who is exceptionally skilled at negotiating prices, especially in online shopping contexts.
My friend is a bargaining master; they always manage to get the lowest price when shopping online.
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.
Meaning 'kitchen god,' this term is a lighthearted way to refer to someone who is exceptionally skilled at cooking. It conveys admiration for culinary skills.
The dishes she makes are truly kitchen god-level; I want to learn so much!
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.
Meaning 'to be self-consistent', this term is used to describe someone who is authentic and true to themselves, often in discussions about personal growth or self-acceptance. It encourages embracing one's own identity...
As long as you are authentic, no one can affect you.
Translating to 'to nag,' this term is used to describe someone who speaks incessantly or repeatedly about a subject, often in a tiresome way.
She always nags, which makes me feel annoyed.
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.
Literally 'to empty out,' this term refers to the act of clearing one's mind, often used in the context of needing a break from stress or overwhelming thoughts. It’s akin to 'zoning out' in English.
This week, I plan to really clear my mind.
This term refers to experience cards or passes that allow users to try out services or products without commitment. It's often associated with marketing promotions in various industries.
I got an experience card and can try this product for free.
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 'turning the page', it refers to moving on from past events or situations, often associated with healing or closure. It encapsulates the idea of leaving old troubles behind.
After this incident, I should move on now.
Translating to 'opening with red,' this term refers to achieving success or making a good start in a new endeavor, often used in business or personal projects.
The new shop opened successfully; it's fantastic.
Literally meaning 'to flip one's life,' this term refers to making a significant positive change or transformation in one's life. It is often used in motivational contexts to inspire others.
I want to change my life through hard work.
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.
Translating to 'personal signature,' this refers to the custom signature or quote that individuals use in their online profiles or social media. It's often a reflection of one's personality or current mood.
I changed my personal signature to let everyone know how I'm feeling lately.
Translating to 'killing time', this phrase refers to activities that occupy one's time without necessarily being productive. It reflects a casual or leisurely approach to passing moments while waiting or looking for e...
I like watching videos to kill time.
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.
Translating to 'urban disease,' this term refers to the various issues faced by people living in cities, such as stress, anxiety, and burnout. It captures the negatives of urban living amid the fast-paced lifestyle.
As urban issues worsen, people increasingly yearn for a pastoral life.
Literally means 'strong man'. It is used to refer to muscular, powerful men, often in a humorous or exaggerated manner.
He works out hard; he's a strong man.
Translating to 'during the pandemic,' this term is used to refer to events, changes, or behaviors that arose as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It reflects on the societal adaptations made.
During the pandemic, many people started shopping online and working remotely.
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.
Means 'planning', often used in the context of event organization or project management. It denotes careful thought and strategy.
Our event planning was excellent; everyone is very satisfied.
The term 'salty fish life' describes a laid-back attitude towards life, where one opts for a low-pressure existence, often in contrast to overly ambitious lifestyles. It reflects a sense of contentment with mediocrity...
Recently, I decided to live a salty fish life and not work so hard anymore.
This term translates to 'circle layer' and refers to social or professional groups with similar interests or backgrounds. It highlights the concept of social stratification and belonging.
In this circle, everyone has high aspirations.
This term means 'sharing economy', referring to business models that promote sharing and renting over ownership. It highlights a cultural shift towards collaborative consumption.
Many young people are participating in the sharing economy by using shared bikes.
While literally meaning 'to take a walk', in internet slang, it often refers to casually browsing online or zoning out in a relaxed manner. It's used to depict an easygoing attitude.
Let's go for a walk in the park tonight.
Literally means 'to watch the sea', this term symbolizes a longing for freedom and relaxation, often associated with travel and escape from daily pressures.
I really want to go to the seaside to relax and watch the waves.
Literally meaning 'negative energy', this term describes pessimism or negative attitudes, often used humorously to address someone’s moody behavior or toxic mindset.
Stop spreading negative energy; everyone wants to be happier.
Meaning 'lost self,' this phrase reflects feelings of confusion regarding one’s identity or purpose, often highlighting the struggle of personal development.
Recently, I’ve felt a bit lost and don’t know what I want.
Literally translated as 'moving bricks,' this slang term refers to doing hard work or labor-intensive tasks, often used to describe tedious jobs.
I’m moving bricks every day; it's really tiring.
Translating to 'waste utilization', this term is used to describe creatively repurposing or making use of items that would otherwise be discarded. It embodies a resourceful and sustainable mindset.
This old box can be repurposed as a flower pot.
Meaning 'to eat dust,' this term is used to describe items that are unused or neglected, especially gadgets or hobbies that someone has lost interest in. It indicates a waste of potential or resources.
My new gaming console is now gathering dust.
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 'smile and face', this phrase encourages maintaining a positive attitude in the face of challenges. It's often used as a motivational statement.
No matter what challenges we face, we must smile and confront them.
Literally 'chip mentality,' this phrase reflects the habit of seeking immediate gratification, akin to how people snack on chips. It implies a tendency to desire instant rewards without consideration for the long term.
Many young people now have a chip mentality and lack patience.
Meaning 'first aid kit,' this term has evolved in internet slang to describe a backup plan or essential tools you keep handy for emergencies—especially in social situations. It's often used to refer to being prepared ...
Remember to take the first aid kit before going out, just in case it's needed.
Translating to 'mind map,' this term refers to a visual tool for organizing thoughts and ideas. It's often used in educational and professional settings to enhance comprehension and creativity.
To prepare for the report, I organized all my thoughts using a mind map.
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