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.
This phrase literally means 'a salted fish turning over' and refers to someone who has undergone a significant change in life, often from a state of laziness or mediocrity to one of success. It embodies the idea of re...
He finally found a good job; it's truly a case of turning over a salted fish!
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.
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.
Literally meaning 'little boss', this term is used to refer to someone who takes charge, often humorously suggesting that they may be directionless or overly confident. It's often used in workplace or casual contexts.
He is the little boss among this group of friends, always wanting to control everything.
This term literally means 'puzzle' but is used in internet slang to refer to cooperative efforts to solve a problem or complete a task with others. It emphasizes teamwork and collaboration in achieving goals.
We are working together like a puzzle in this project.
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.
This term translates to 'table-sharing' and is used in dining contexts where people share tables in crowded settings. It conveys a sense of community and togetherness.
We shared a table at this restaurant and met new friends.
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.
This term translates to 'simply' or 'straightforwardly' and is used to advocate for decisiveness in action or speech. It indicates a straightforward, no-nonsense approach.
Let’s just do it this way; there's no need to think further.
This term means 'late-stage laziness' and describes someone who is extremely lazy or has a chronic tendency to procrastinate. It's often used humorously to convey a sense of resignation about one’s lack of motivation.
Right now, I'm in the late stage of laziness; I just want to sleep.
Meaning 'online lending', this term is used to refer to digital platforms that offer loans. It often carries a negative connotation due to concerns about high interest rates and the potential for financial troubles.
He is in deep debt because of online lending; it's truly a lesson learned.
This phrase translates to 'not disturbing' and is often used humorously to indicate that one wants to be left alone for personal time or introspection. It reflects a common sentiment in modern life where people seek s...
I just want to be quiet today, don’t disturb me.
Translating to 'pursue dreams', this term captures the spirit of chasing one’s aspirations despite challenges. It inspires individuals to actively seek their goals with passion.
We need to pursue our dreams and strive to achieve our goals.
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 'suffer losses,' this term refers to situations where one feels taken advantage of or slightly worse off due to circumstances. It's often used casually to describe everyday disappointments.
I forgot to bring money when I went out; that really is a loss for me.
Translating to 'mindset,' this term is used to describe one’s attitude or approach towards life, situations, or challenges. It’s frequently mentioned in the context of personal development.
Changing your mindset is essential to better face life’s challenges.
Translating to 'homework pressure,' this term reflects the stress and anxiety students experience due to academic demands, especially in an increasingly competitive educational environment.
I need to relieve my homework pressure this weekend.
This phrase means 'seeking plums to quench thirst', which metaphorically refers to visualizing something that satisfies one’s desire. It is often used to describe longing or craving something.
During stressful times, I often visualize a bright future to quench my thirst for hope.
Translating to 'live with a smile', this term encourages maintaining a positive attitude despite life’s challenges. It embodies resilience and a cheerful disposition.
No matter how busy I am, I want to live with a smile.
Super / way too / really — a Beijing dialect intensifier used before adjectives to mean extremely. 忒贵 means way too expensive, 忒好 means really great. It is the Beijing equivalent of 太 but carries a stronger working-cl...
This thing is way too expensive — there is no way I can afford that.
This phrase means 'wasting life,' commonly used to express regret or frustration over time spent on unproductive activities or things that don't bring fulfillment.
Sometimes I feel like I'm wasting my life binge-watching shows.
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.
Referring to a popular Chinese chili sauce brand, this term is used humorously to symbolize anything that adds flavor or excitement to life, often in a deceptively simple way.
This seasoning is like Lao Gan Ma; it adds so much flavor to the dish.
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.
Teary eyes - Being moved to tears.
Got teary eyes at this ending.
Literally 'heart unwilling', it expresses a feeling of dissatisfaction or regret about something that hasn't gone as expected. It conveys lingering emotions.
Although I lost the competition, I feel unwilling and will try again next year.
Translating to 'leave it to the future us', this term emphasizes procrastinating important decisions or actions for future consideration, often humorously.
Today’s work is left for future us to do.
This term translates to 'self-motivated' and is often used to describe someone who takes initiative without needing external prompts. It's used in both positive contexts to praise someone's work ethic and in sarcasm w...
He is always self-motivated and never requires me to push him.
Happy water - Coca-Cola or sugary drinks.
Get me some happy water!
Translates to 'never give up,' this term is often used to inspire perseverance in various challenges, especially in the context of competitions, work, or personal development.
No matter what difficulties we face, we will never give up!
This term translates to 'short holiday' and refers to brief breaks during weeks or weekends, especially in relation to work schedules. It embodies the anticipation of time off.
I’m looking forward to the next short holiday to travel.
Literally 'simmer on low heat,' it metaphorically refers to taking a slow and steady approach to achieve results. This term suggests that patience and gradual progress are vital.
For anything you do, take it slow and steady to see real results.
Literally 'sorry to disturb,' this phrase is commonly used in a casual tone to indicate lightheartedness when interrupting someone. It's akin to saying 'pardon the interruption' in English.
Sorry to disturb, I just wanted to ask about this matter.
This phrase means 'unique style' and is used to describe something or someone with a distinctive aesthetic or approach. It conveys appreciation for originality.
Her dressing style is unique and very attractive.
Translating to 'paying respects for the New Year,' this term refers to the tradition of greeting people during the Spring Festival, conveying good wishes and blessings.
The Spring Festival is approaching; we should greet each other with New Year wishes.
Translating to 'positive energy', it refers to an optimistic attitude and mindset, often used in motivational content and discussions.
She always shares some positive energy stories that uplift people.
Meaning 'to sprout,' this term is often used metaphorically to describe new ideas, relationships, or interests coming to life. It reflects the beginning of growth or passion.
I’ve sprouted new ideas about this project.
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.
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.
Translating to 'silent exit,' this term refers to leaving a conversation or group without making a fuss, often used when someone feels uncomfortable or is avoiding drama.
He felt out of place in the group chat, so he chose to exit silently.
This term refers specifically to the phonetic transcription of Chinese characters using the Latin alphabet. It's essential for language learning, allowing non-native speakers to pronounce Mandarin correctly.
While learning Chinese characters, 'pinyin' is also very important.
Translating to 'floating on water,' this term refers to someone who is slacking off or not actively engaging in work or studies. It's often used humorously to describe moments when someone is present but not really co...
During class, he was just floating on water, not paying attention to the teacher at all.
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 meaning 'to roll up', this phrase indicates getting motivated or ramping up one's efforts in a competitive context, often related to work or study. It expresses a mindset of tackling challenges head-on.
Hurry up and roll up! Everyone is working hard.
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.
Do not / no need to — a contracted Beijing word combining 不用 (no need) into a single character. Extremely common in spoken Beijing dialect and a strong marker of authentic northern Chinese speech. More emphatic and st...
Do not worry about it — I will handle this, trust me.
This slang translates to 'broken' or 'damaged' and is often used humorously to describe someone who is emotionally exhausted or overly stressed. It has a lighthearted connotation in casual settings.
I've been working too much lately; I feel like I'm about to break.
Translating to 'English corner,' this term refers to informal gatherings for language practice, often involving discussion and casual conversation. It's popular among students learning English.
We hold an English corner in the park every Wednesday.
Meaning 'to order takeout', this commonplace phrase reflects the modern convenience of food delivery, especially among busy urban dwellers. It represents a significant aspect of contemporary dining culture.
I worked overtime too late today, so I decided to order takeout.
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.
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