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.
To fly over eaves and run along walls — the classic wuxia description of a martial artist's superhuman agility and stealth. Online, used to admiringly or sarcastically describe anyone who moves with unexpected speed, ...
He snuck out the moment the boss was gone — practically flying over walls.
Literally 'financial freedom', this term describes a state where a person has enough wealth to live without working. It reflects aspirations of younger generations for a carefree lifestyle.
Everyone hopes to achieve financial freedom as soon as possible and live the life they want.
Translates to 'small beauties of the human world'; refers to the little pleasures and sweet moments in life that can uplift spirits. It indicates a focus on the positive amidst challenges.
Seeing the sunrise every day reflects the small beauties of the human world.
This phrase translates to 'feeling a bit down today'. It's often used casually to express low mood or disappointment, resonating with shared feelings of melancholy.
I'm feeling a bit down today, nothing particularly happy happened.
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.
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.
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 'home man/home woman', these terms refer to individuals who prefer staying at home and often engage in hobbies like gaming, watching movies, or reading. They are often associated with a subculture that ...
He's a typical home guy, spending weekends at home playing games.
Literally meaning 'night owl', this term refers to people who stay up late, often due to work or leisure activities. It's often used in a playful context.
I’m such a night owl, always binge-watching shows late into the night.
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 'chasing dramas', this term refers to binge-watching TV shows or series. It's commonly used among fans to describe the act of rapidly consuming episodes of their favorite dramas, reflecting the popularity of...
I plan to binge-watch my favorite shows this weekend.
This refers to being in a tough economic situation, with '159' symbolizing 'one five nine' which phonetically relates to poverty in Chinese. Used humorously or sarcastically.
This month, I'm again in a tough economic situation; I'm out of money.
Means 'cultivation' or 'training,' often used in the context of self-improvement or personal growth efforts, including skills and character development.
I've been focusing on cultivating my professional skills lately.
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.
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.
This term means 'minimalism', referring to a lifestyle that advocates simplicity and reducing material possessions. It's used in discussions around lifestyle choices, interior design, and fashion.
I've recently started pursuing a minimalist lifestyle.
Meaning 'happy fat homebody', this term affectionately describes individuals who enjoy staying at home and indulging in leisurely activities, often humorously embracing their lifestyle. It reflects the joy of comfort ...
I'm just a happy fat homebody who loves watching dramas at home.
Meaning 'bottom-level common people', this term often describes ordinary citizens facing socioeconomic challenges. It reflects a sense of struggle and resilience among the working class.
As bottom-level common people, we face significant pressure in our lives.
Translates to 'to be free and carefree', often used to describe a lifestyle choice to live spontaneously without much planning. It's popular among youth who prioritize experiences over responsibilities.
During the break, I chose to live freely and spent a few days by the sea.
This term refers to 'hairy' or 'messy hair,' often describing a casual, carefree look. It can be endearing or used humorously when someone appears relaxed and unbothered.
Today, I just want to have a messy hairstyle, a bit casual.
Translating to 'rational' or 'sensible,' this term is often used to encourage people to think logically rather than emotionally, especially in heated debates or discussions.
In this kind of debate, we need to stay rational.
This term means 'marginal person,' referring to someone who feels socially isolated or disconnected from a group. It reflects feelings of loneliness or exclusion.
I always feel like a marginal person and can't fit in with everyone.
Literally translating to 'eat first, then say,' this phrase suggests the importance of taking care of basic needs before engaging in discussions or activities. It emphasizes prioritizing self-care.
I'm too hungry right now; I'll eat first and then talk.
Translating to 'heart tired,' this term expresses emotional exhaustion rather than physical fatigue. It's used to describe feeling mentally drained or overwhelmed, often in social or work contexts.
I've been busy with work lately; I'm emotionally drained.
Literally meaning 'online teaching,' this term became popular during the pandemic when many people turned to remote learning. It's often associated with both the challenges and creativity that emerged during this tran...
During the pandemic, everyone was taking online classes.
This phrase literally means 'water and soil are not suitable', referring to feeling uncomfortable or unwell, especially in a new environment. It carries a sense of adaptation issues.
I just moved to a new city and feel uncomfortable.
This phrase means 'to find happiness in one's place', conveying a sense of contentment and fulfillment in one's current situation. It reflects a positive attitude towards life.
As long as I find happiness in my place, I’ll be satisfied.
This term refers to 'office workers', denoting those who work typical 9-to-5 jobs. It's often used to discuss workplace culture and the daily lives of these individuals.
As an office worker, the pace of life is always so fast.
This slang translates to 'cloud rice', referring to people who consume food primarily through online food delivery apps. It reflects the modern trend of convenience in the fast-paced lifestyle.
I've recently become a loyal fan of cloud rice.
Translating to 'Tiger mom and wolf dad,' this term refers to strict parenting styles that excessively push children to excel. It symbolizes the high expectations placed on the younger generation.
Many parents nowadays are tiger moms and wolf dads, putting a lot of pressure on their children.
Translating to 'pouring clarified butter on the crown', this term refers to receiving enlightenment or sudden realization, often from insightful conversation or knowledge. It implies a profound understanding.
His speech enlightened me, and I understood many things.
Translating to 'hidden wealthy person', this term describes someone who has wealth but doesn’t flaunt it. It’s often used to critique overt displays of wealth from people who aren’t necessarily the richest.
He seems very ordinary, but he’s actually a hidden wealthy person.
Translates to 'repetitive nagging.' It describes someone who keeps repeating themselves or complaining about the same issue. It's often used endearingly to describe parents or caregivers.
I’m annoyed by the repetitive nagging voice.
Meaning 'to get rid of' or 'to break free', this term is used when someone seeks to escape from a difficult situation or toxic relationship. It can refer to physical or emotional liberation.
I finally got rid of that job that made me unhappy.
Translating to 'violent thunder', this term refers to sudden and catastrophic financial failures, often used in discussions about investments or business scandals. It suggests shock and unpredictability.
The violent thunder of this company's failure caused significant losses for many investors.
This phrase translates to 'I need to work hard today' and is used to express motivation on a challenging day. It reflects the common struggle to stay motivated, especially during tough times.
Although I’m tired, I still need to work hard today.
Translates to 'prologue of the human world'. This term describes the beginning of a new chapter in life, often used in a sentimental or reflective context. It can signify hope or new beginnings.
The new year is the start of my prologue of the human world; I look forward to the future.
This phrase translates to 'liberate oneself' and is used to describe a carefree attitude or the act of letting go of inhibitions. It often symbolizes enjoying life without worrying about societal expectations.
I’ve decided to liberate myself this weekend and enjoy to the fullest.
Translating to 'riding the fence', this term describes someone who is indecisive or non-committal, particularly in discussions or disputes.
He always rides the fence on this issue, which is quite disappointing.
This term means 'skyscraper' and is often used metaphorically to represent lofty ambitions or unattainable goals in life. It reflects the desire for success and the challenges that come with it.
His dreams are as high as a skyscraper, which is admirable.
Translating to 'myriad phenomena of the world', this term describes the rich and varied experiences of life. It's often used in poetic or philosophical contexts.
Life is a myriad of phenomena, with new discoveries every day.
Literally 'revive full health on the spot', this term is often used to describe someone bouncing back quickly from a setback or recovering rapidly from a low point. It reflects resilience and resourcefulness.
After a night's rest, I have revived fully on the spot today!
This term means 'debt dodger' and refers to individuals who refuse to pay their debts. It is often used in discussions about accountability and financial responsibility.
This person has already been labeled a debt dodger by everyone; many are afraid to lend him money.
Extend life - Something essential to keep going.
Coffee is my life-extending artifact.
This term translates to 'internet celebrity shop', referring to popular stores or eateries that have gained fame through social media. It reflects a trend where businesses become popular primarily through online platf...
We have to queue up to eat at the internet celebrity shop.
Meaning 'bad luck', this term is used humorously to describe a series of unfortunate events. It's often expressed as a way to cope with the struggles of daily life.
This week, I've had such bad luck; I feel like I've been living in 'bad luck.'
Translating to 'study god', this term is used to praise someone who excels in their studies or has a talent for academics. It reflects admiration for diligence and intelligence.
She is truly a study god, scoring full marks in every exam.
Meaning 'it's nothing', this term is often used to downplay a situation or assure someone that everything is fine. It conveys a casual attitude towards minor issues.
It’s okay, it’s nothing; I can understand your situation.
This phrase means 'recommendation of good items' and is used by individuals sharing products or experiences they find valuable. It embodies the spirit of sharing useful information.
This skincare product is really a good recommendation; the effects are great.
Literally translates to 'suddenly becoming an old person,' this slang expresses feelings of being overwhelmed or tired, especially after too much responsibility or stress. It's a humorous way to convey exhaustion.
I have so much work; I suddenly feel like an old person.
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