This section of the Chinese Slang Dictionary focuses on Internet Culture 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.
Literally 'burying a hint,' this term is used to describe the practice of leaving subtle clues or references, often in content creation or storytelling. It encourages audience engagement and speculation.
She left many hints in the video, and everyone is discussing them.
Meaning 'fervor' or 'enthusiasm,' this term is often used to describe extreme excitement or passion for a trend, topic, or fandom. It can have both positive and negative connotations.
The fervor for this movie shocked me.
Wherever there are people, there is jianghu. This famous line captures the idea that politics, rivalry, and social dynamics are inescapable wherever humans gather — at work, online, in friend groups, everywhere.
I thought changing jobs would let me escape drama — but wherever there are people, there is jianghu.
'让人窒息' means 'breathtaking' or 'suffocating' and describes a situation, experience, or aesthetic that is so stunning it leaves one speechless. It can be used both positively and negatively.
The beauty of this painting takes my breath away.
Referring to 'Douyin lilies', this term is associated with the coupling of unexpected or quirky pairs, often seen in humorous content on Douyin. It emphasizes the fun of unusual pairings.
This combination is just like Douyin lilies; it's so interesting!
Meaning 'fresh and unique', this term describes something that is refreshing and stands out from the ordinary. It's often used in artistic contexts but can apply to any new and exciting ideas.
His design style is fresh and unique, making it instantly appealing.
High energy ahead - Warning that exciting content is coming.
High energy ahead, pay attention!
Literally 'to brush existence', this term refers to the act of seeking attention or validation on social media, often by posting frequently. It characterizes behaviors where individuals try to ensure their presence is...
He posts online every day to brush existence, hoping more people will pay attention to him.
Translating to 'fake foreign devil', this term refers to someone who pretends to be foreign or adopts foreign culture superficially, often for social status. It can carry a derogatory connotation when critiquing such ...
He always speaks English, what a fake foreign devil.
Translating to 'releasing the big move,' this term is used to describe making a powerful or impressive move or action, often in competitions or arguments.
He made an impressive move in the competition and ultimately won the championship.
Translating to 'speak carefully,' this term advises caution in conversations, especially regarding sensitive topics. It emphasizes the importance of choosing words wisely.
Everyone should speak carefully when discussing this issue.
Literally meaning 'gods fighting', this term describes an intense competition or showdown, often used in sports or entertainment, implying that the outcome is unpredictable and thrilling.
This match is like gods fighting; the audience just can't stop watching.
Translating to 'grand entrance,' this phrase is often used humorously to announce someone coming onto a scene dramatically or in a way that catches attention, suggesting a fun buildup.
He made a grand entrance, and everyone applauded for him.
Meaning 'check-in hotspot', this term refers to popular locations where people frequently take photos to share on social media. It highlights a culture of sharing experiences and showcasing one's life.
This place is truly a check-in hotspot; everyone is taking pictures.
Refers to the descendants of the Yan and Huang emperors, often used to express pride in Chinese heritage. It signifies a sense of unity among Chinese people, emphasizing cultural identity.
As descendants of the Yan and Huang emperors, we must inherit and promote Chinese culture.
Translating to 'cloud pet raising,' this term refers to the trend of people engaging with pets online (like through videos or images) instead of owning them. This allows people to experience pet companionship without ...
I engage in 'cloud pet raising' every day, enjoying the daily lives of cute animals.
Translating to 'group effect,' this term describes how individuals in a group can influence one another's behavior or thoughts, often used in discussions about trends or social phenomena. It highlights the power of co...
Today's online culture has a strong group effect; many people are just following trends.
This term translates to 'girly boy' and is used to refer to men who exhibit traits traditionally associated with femininity. While it can be used derogatorily, it has also been reclaimed by some who embrace a more flu...
He likes to wear makeup; everyone calls him a girly boy.
Literally translates to 'water things,' it describes spreading rumors or gossip that lacks substance. It’s often used to call out baseless claims.
The rumors you've heard are completely unreliable.
Meaning 'dimension wall,' this term is used to describe the boundary between different realms of fandom or genres, particularly in anime and gaming. It’s often used when crossing or blending these boundaries.
This work broke the dimensional wall; it’s stunning.
Translating to 'having a count in one's mind', this term means being aware or knowledgeable about something, often before it is said or revealed.
He is well aware of this project and can provide many useful suggestions.
Meaning 'beast world', this term refers to a genre in fiction where animal traits or characteristics dominate. It's often associated with fantasy literature and fandom.
She is reading a novel about the 'beast world', and the story is captivating.
This number is used as a slang term representing various things, from '3-6-9' as a meme to signify mystery and unpredictability. It often pops up in humorous contexts.
He always likes to use 369 to tease everyone.
Translating to 'chasing trends,' this term describes the act of following the latest fashions, habits, or behaviors, often to fit in.
He always likes to chase trends and tries out the latest hairstyles.
Translating to 'cloud cat-adoring', this term describes the act of enjoying or adoring cats online, often through social media. It reflects a growing trend of virtual pet ownership and appreciation.
Recently, I've been adoring cats online every day, and I feel particularly happy.
This term translates to 'team-building', referring to activities designed to enhance social relations and define roles within teams. It's commonly used in corporate environments, especially in discussions on workplace...
The company organized a team-building event to foster better relationships among everyone.
Translating to 'labeling', this term can describe the tendency to categorize individuals or things based on preconceived notions or stereotypes, often used in discussions about social media.
We should oppose labeling and be more inclusive when we see others.
Literally 'data killer', this slang refers to individuals or tools that disrupt or invalidate existing data trends, often used in marketing and analysis discussions. It highlights a disruptive impact on established no...
He’s a data killer, always finding new ways to overturn old data.
Literally meaning 'bankrupt', this term can also describe someone who feels financially drained after heavy spending, often humorously tied to shopping sprees or expensive hobbies.
This month I’m officially bankrupt; I bought too many things.
It translates to 'all beings are equal.' This phrase is frequently used in discussions about social issues, promoting the idea of equality among people regardless of their background or status.
In this society, we should all strive for equality among all beings.
Refers to a significant historical incident in Chinese history, but in internet slang, it has come to symbolize unexpected twists or turns in events, often used humorously.
The result of this match was really an unexpected twist!
To protect and guard — used as both a verb and a hashtag for content about protecting vulnerable things: animals, children, nature, traditions. Became a popular caption alongside rescue videos after 雪山救狐狸 circulated w...
We must protect every life, no matter how big or small.
Meaning 'to suddenly become popular', this term describes something or someone who quickly gains fame or recognition, often through social media or online platforms.
This product suddenly became popular; everyone is rushing to buy it.
Gary Stu - Male equivalent of Mary Sue.
The male lead is a Gary Stu, can do everything.
Literally rivers and lakes — the shadowy world of martial artists, outlaws, and wanderers in wuxia fiction. Online, used metaphorically for any competitive social world with unspoken rules: the office, the internet, t...
This company is a real jianghu — people's hearts are hard to read.
This term means 'water' but is often used in internet slang to describe something that lacks substance or depth, such as a low-quality article or superficial content. It implies a negative assessment.
This article is very shallow and has no substantial content.
Meaning 'tug of war', this term is used metaphorically to describe a situation where two parties are in intense competition or conflict over something.
The competition between these two companies is like a tug of war.
Literally meaning 'no problems,' this slang is used to express agreement or approval. It can be seen as a way to validate someone's opinion or statement.
What you said is spot on; we should definitely do it this way.
Translates to 'character setting.' It refers to the persona or image someone projects to others, especially on social media. It often implies a curated version of oneself that may differ from reality.
I think her character setting is a bit fake.
Meaning 'stir-fried cold rice,' this term refers to rehashing old ideas or topics, often used to criticize content that lacks originality.
This show keeps rehashing old ideas; I'm really tired of it.
This phrase translates to 'jobless rebirth', originating from popular anime and light novels. It refers to a fantasy of starting life anew, often in a different world or situation, particularly appealing to those drea...
I really wish I could be reborn jobless to a better place.
Translating to 'buried', this term describes someone or something that gets overshadowed or ignored in a situation, often used humorously when referring to content or ideas that don’t get recognition.
This good news got buried; no one noticed it.
Meaning 'supremacy doctrine,' this term is used to define a mindset or belief that one idea or value is superior to others, often applied in discussions about preferences in fashion, food, or lifestyle choices. It's c...
His coffee supremacy attitude is quite frustrating.
Translating to 'programming thinking,' this term refers to a mindset that emphasizes logic, structure, and step-by-step problem-solving. It's commonly mentioned in education and tech discussions.
Learning programming thinking can help us tackle complex problems.
Derived from 'cyber,' this term is often used to describe anything related to the digital or internet world. It's frequently combined with other words to signify tech-related culture or aesthetics.
The cyber style of this game is really cool!
The Algorithm — originally the standard technical term for algorithm, now used culturally to describe being captured or manipulated by platform recommendation systems.
The algorithm knows me too well — I've been scrolling for two hours and can't stop.
Translating to 'hugging a big thigh', this slang means to seek support or connection with someone powerful or influential. It often implies relying on others for help instead of self-reliance.
He always tries to hug a big thigh; it’s really boring.
Literally meaning 'to hit the liver,' this term refers to staying up late or working excessively hard, particularly in the context of gaming or programming. It often conveys a sense of pride in one’s dedication but al...
I stayed up late again to clear the level.
Translating to 'turbulent waves', this phrase is used metaphorically to describe chaotic or intense situations, often in online discussions. It paints a vivid image of emotional or social upheaval.
This debate has sparked a turbulent wave of discussions.
Digital collectible - The Chinese term for NFTs to avoid regulatory issues.
This digital collectible has a limited release of 10000 copies.
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