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.
An abbreviation that stands for '9-9-6 means you will end up in the ICU', this term is a critique of the extreme work culture represented by the 996 schedule and highlights its toll on health. It's a rallying cry for ...
Many people are opposing the 996.ICU culture.
Translating to 'writer', this term is often used to refer to content creators, especially those who produce fanfiction or other creative writing. It celebrates the art of writing in the digital space.
She's an excellent writer; she can always craft touching stories.
Translating to 'acquiring knowledge', this phrase is often used humorously to describe the excessive consumption of memes or fun facts online instead of serious study. It reflects a modern approach to learning.
Even though I don’t read books, I’m acquiring knowledge every day online.
Translating to 'distinct styles', this term indicates that various people or things have noticeably different traits or characteristics. It's commonly used in discussions about fashion, art, or personal expression.
Their works have distinct styles, each with its own characteristics.
Translates to 'divine reversal'. It describes an unexpected plot twist or change in events, usually in storytelling or everyday life.
The divine reversal in this story was completely unexpected.
Translating to 'online literature', this term refers to literary works published and shared online, often emerging from fan fiction or amateur writing communities. It emphasizes the democratization of writing.
Online literature is becoming more and more popular, attracting many young people.
Translating to 'acting faction', this term refers to actors or actresses who are considered highly skilled and serious about their craft, as opposed to those who rely on looks or superficial charm. It implies depth in...
She is truly a skilled actor; she performs every role excellently.
Literally meaning 'rollback', this term is used in both gaming and software contexts to refer to reverting a system or game to a previous state. It often refers to a failure or bug fix.
After the game update, there was a problem, so we had to choose to rollback.
This term translates to 'melon-eating masses', referring to bystanders or those who are watching drama unfold without being involved. It embodies a sense of amusement or apathy towards the situation.
We’re all just bystanders, wanting to enjoy the show.
This term means 'not popular' or 'not in demand,' typically used to describe ideas, trends, or products that fail to attract interest or attention.
This product is not in demand right now; sales are very low.
Paper hands - Selling too early out of fear, weak holders.
He has paper hands, sells as soon as it dips.
Meaning 'sitting and waiting', this term describes the act of waiting passively for something to happen, often used humorously in contexts where people are eagerly anticipating an outcome.
Regarding the outcome of the game, all I can do is sit and wait.
Translating to 'push down in place', this term is used in online gaming to depict a character being defeated easily. It also applies to instances where one feels overwhelmed or taken down unexpectedly in life.
In this game, I was easily taken down by the enemy without any resistance.
This number is used as slang for 'to gossip' or 'to expose', often about celebrities or social status. It sounds like 'ba ba', which is a playful way to refer to providing juicy details.
She loves to gossip about celebrities' private lives in the group.
Diamond hands - Holding an asset no matter what, refusing to sell during dips.
Diamond hands are not afraid of dips, just hold.
Meaning 'immersive,' this term usually describes experiences like gaming or virtual realities where users feel deeply engaged. It's frequently used in discussions about video games, technology, and interactive media.
This game offers an immersive experience that makes me lose track of time.
Literally meaning 'captivating', this phrase describes something that is fascinating and draws people in. It's often used in reviews of movies, books, or performances that have a strong impact on the audience.
The storyline of this book is captivating; I finished it in one go.
Literally translates to 'steady and secure', this term is used to describe decisions or actions that are considered safe or reliable. It conveys a sense of cautious optimism.
Choosing a steady and secure plan is wise.
Meme / Running joke - An inside joke or internet meme.
This meme is too old.
Literally 'mini version', this term is often used in a playful context to refer to something that is a reduced or cut-down model of a larger original, commonly used in references to products or phenomena.
This toy is a mini version of what I had when I was young.
Great god / Pro - An expert or highly skilled person.
Please help, pros!
Bullet comments - Real-time scrolling comments on videos.
The comments are too dense, cannot see the video.
Translating to 'little dark horse', this term is used to describe a person or thing that unexpectedly gains popularity or success. It's often used in competitive contexts, such as sports or entertainment.
This singer unexpectedly became a dark horse, gaining fame shortly after debut.
Means 'tea art', but in internet slang, it refers to the way one cleverly navigates social situations or disputes, much like the artistry involved in preparing tea. It indicates skillful social maneuvering.
In this discussion, her social art is truly unparalleled.
This term means 'werewolf,' and in the gaming context, it often refers to players who deceive or manipulate others, particularly in games like 'Werewolf.'
In this round of the game, he plays the role of the werewolf; it's really interesting.
Master Xing — the affectionate honorific Chinese fans use for Stephen Chow (周星驰), combining his name character 星 with the respectful title 爷. Used online to refer to him with maximum reverence, or when quoting any of ...
I have watched every one of Master Xing's films more than ten times and never get tired of them.
Literally 'eating chicken', this term is commonly used in gaming cultures, particularly in reference to winning in battle royale games like PUBG, where the last player or team standing is said to be 'eating chicken'.
I won a chicken dinner yesterday; it felt amazing!
Literally meaning 'flirtatious operation', this term is often used in gaming and social contexts to describe clever or unexpected moves that impress others. It can also imply a sense of show-off or 'style' in executin...
His flirtatious operation stunned all the viewers.
The term means 'to pin at the top.' It refers to the act of keeping a post or message at the top of a social feed to ensure visibility, often used in online forums or social media.
I pinned this message to the top; everyone come and check it out!
Meaning 'to deduce' or 'infer', this term is often used in contexts where people are making guesses or conclusions based on limited information, particularly in discussions or debates online.
Everyone is guessing about the stars' relationship.
This playful phrase is a phonetic play on 'check out' and is used to express excitement or a desire to show something off. It often sets a lively tone for conversations.
Check it out! This piece of clothing is really nice.
This term means 'to eat vigorously' and is often used to describe someone who is enthusiastically enjoying their meal. It can also imply a sense of indulgence.
Seeing him eat so vigorously makes me want to join him.
This term means 'villain' and is used to describe someone who is perceived negatively but may have a charismatic or intriguing quality. It's popular in discussions about movies or pop culture.
The villain character in this drama is very charismatic.
Referring to 'Liaozhai', which means 'Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio', this term is often used to describe bizarre or supernatural stories shared online. It's popular among younger audiences who enjoy folklore an...
The recent short video reminded me of the stories from Liaozhai.
Translated as 'little blue book', it refers to the app Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book), which combines social media and e-commerce. Users share product reviews, experiences, and lifestyle posts.
I found a lot of good things on Little Blue Book!
Translating to 'fire out of the circle', this term refers to content or people that become widely popular beyond their initial environment or niche. It captures the essence of viral trends.
This song has become widely popular; everyone is listening.
Translating to 'peak showdown,' this term is used to describe a dramatic or exciting competition or confrontation, especially in games or sports. It conveys high stakes and an engaging contest between top competitors.
This match was truly a peak showdown; both sides went all out.
Translating as 'system crash,' this term describes an instance when something stops functioning properly, especially technology or software. It's often used humorously to describe failure or chaos.
My computer crashed again.
This term means 'little white' but is often used to describe someone who is a novice or inexperienced in a specific field or activity, similar to a newbie. It conveys a sense of innocence and lack of knowledge.
I’m still a newbie in this game.
Translating to 'sound waves,' this term refers to the waves of sound, often associated with music or audio experiences at concerts. It’s used to describe the thrilling feeling of being immersed in music.
At this music festival, the sound waves really thrilled me.
Translating to ‘tendency’ or ‘trend’, this term is used to describe popular movements or practices, especially on social media. It highlights current cultural phenomena.
The consumption trends of young people have changed significantly now.
Translates to 'deify' or 'canonize'. It's used to describe someone or something that has achieved legendary status or is being praised extravagantly. This is often used in the context of idolizing celebrities or influ...
This singer-dancer has been deified online.
This term literally translates to 'soul chicken soup' and refers to motivational quotes meant to uplift spirits. It's often used sarcastically to mock clichés.
I think this soul chicken soup is really not nutritious.
Mining - Using computing power to mine cryptocurrency.
He mines at home, electricity costs more than the earnings.
Translating to 'tap water', this slang refers to someone who joins discussions or fandoms without prior engagement, often used humorously to describe casual fans or bystanders.
Many casual fans are discussing this show now.
Translating to 'imitation show', this term refers to events or performances where individuals imitate others, often celebrities, in a humorous or entertaining manner. It’s a staple in variety shows.
Many variety shows recently featured imitation acts that made me laugh so hard my stomach hurt.
Translating to 'grabbing the sofa,' this term refers to the act of being the first to comment on a new post or article, often seen as a way to gain attention or pride within online communities.
I got the sofa; let me comment quickly!
Translates to 'virtual', often referring to online or digital environments, including virtual reality or online friendships, reflecting the growing influence of technology.
She has many virtual friends, even though she has never met them in person.
A slang term derived from a popular game, referring to a player who is very skilled or expert. It’s often used in gaming contexts to commend someone for their abilities.
He is an expert in this game; he's amazing!
Literally 'filter,' this term is commonly used in photography and videos to refer to the visual effects that enhance images on social media. It symbolizes the desire for idealized or curated images.
Her photos all have filters, they look so beautiful.
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