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.
Internet Culture Slang Terms
This term refers to the 'activity level' of a post or content, measuring how engaging or interactive it is within social media contexts. Users often discuss this in relation to getting more views or likes.
The activity level of this video is too low; no one is commenting.
Translating to 'playing together', this term refers to individuals who are paid to play games with others, often in online gaming contexts. It highlights trends in gaming culture where companionship is monetized.
I found someone to play games with; we will play together tonight.
Translating to 'crane's call', this term is used to symbolize beauty and grace, often associated with artistic pursuits or aspirations. It reflects a deeper appreciation for aesthetics in culture.
Her dance is as elegant as the crane's call.
Meaning 'niche' or 'obscure,' this term is often used to describe topics, interests, or trends that aren’t mainstream but have a dedicated following.
This niche culture is quite popular in small circles.
Translating to 'popular' or 'all the rage', this term describes trends or fashions that have captured widespread attention among the public. It's often used in discussions about viral content.
This game became immensely popular among young people.
Means 'mover,' used to refer to people who share or repost content from others without adding their own opinions. It implies a passive role in content sharing.
He’s just a mover, lacking his own insights.
Meaning 'definitely correct', this phrase is used to express strong agreement or confidence in something. It’s often used to affirm statements or suggestions.
Doing it this way is definitely correct.
Literally means 'hardcore dog'. This term is used to describe someone or something that is extremely dedicated and serious, often to the point of being overly intense. It's commonly used in online gaming or among enth...
The players of this game are all hardcore dogs; the competition is very fierce.
Literally meaning 'cutting off the edge,' this slang is used when someone preempts another person, especially in the context of online discussions or competitions. It's often used in gaming or business contexts.
I was just about to make a move, and he cut me off.
Translating to 'traffic', this term refers to online engagement, such as views, clicks, or user activity on social media or websites. It highlights the importance of user interaction for content creators.
This article has high traffic; everyone is discussing it.
Translating to 'shining debut,' this phrase is often used to describe a grand entrance or appearance, particularly in media or performances, adding a sense of spectacle.
Her shining debut on stage amazed everyone.
Meaning 'anti-routine', this term describes unexpected twists in stories or content that defy typical expectations. It's often used in discussions about films, shows, or narratives that surprise audiences.
The ending of this show was so unexpected; it really surprised me.
Translating to 'storm circle,' this term is used to describe a crisis or intense drama occurring within a limited group, often on social media. It has a connotation of chaos amidst a close-knit community.
The recent discussion has been really chaotic.
Literally translating to 'mind hole wide open,' this term describes a moment of inspiration or a sudden burst of creativity, often used when someone has a unique idea or solution to a problem.
His words opened my mind wide to new ideas.
This term means 'internet celebrity selling goods' and refers to the trend of online influencers promoting products, highlighting the influence of social media on shopping.
Nowadays, many young people prefer to shop through internet celebrities selling goods.
Literally 'to drop the line', this term is used to describe losing connection, especially during online activities or games. It reflects the frustrations of unreliable technology.
I just lost connection; what bad luck.
Translating to 'explosively great', this term expresses overwhelming approval, often used in social media comments to show excitement for content.
This performance is explosively great; it's so beautiful!
This term means 'double speed' and is often used in the context of watching videos or consuming content at an accelerated pace. It reflects a fast-paced lifestyle where people seek to maximize their time.
I like to set videos to double speed so I can save time.
The Nine Yin Manual — the supreme martial arts scripture in Jin Yong's The Legend of the Condor Heroes, containing the ultimate secrets of combat. Online, used for any comprehensive, authoritative guide or resource th...
This interview prep resource is basically the Nine Yin Manual — it has everything.
This phrase translates to 'monthly salary of ten thousand' and refers to a desirable income level that many young professionals aspire to achieve. It symbolizes financial success.
I hope to earn a monthly salary of ten thousand after I start working and live the life I want.
This slang translates to 'out of fashion' or 'past its prime', used to describe trends or celebrities that once were popular but have since faded. It's often used to critique or joke about fleeting fame.
His style is now out of fashion; no one follows it anymore.
Translating to 'light speed', this term refers to the speed at which something happens, often used to describe quick responses or rapid changes. It conveys a sense of urgency and efficiency.
His response was at light speed; I couldn’t even react.
Translating to 'working is tiring', this phrase reflects the exhaustion many feel from their jobs, often used to express solidarity among workers.
I was so busy at work today; working is tiring.
This phrase means 'to hit the headlines' and is used when someone or something becomes very popular or trending in news and social media. It emphasizes sudden fame or recognition.
His work suddenly hit the headlines; it’s amazing.
Instant kill / Sold out instantly - Something selling out immediately or defeating someone instantly.
This limited edition sold out instantly.
Private key - The secret key that controls your crypto wallet.
Never tell anyone your private key!
Translating to 'repost,' this term is widely used on social media to refer to sharing content created by others. It shows the collaborative nature of online media where sharing is common.
I reposted an interesting post on Weibo.
Carry to fly - A skilled player carrying weaker teammates.
The pro is carrying us!
Literally 'brain hole,' this term refers to a sudden burst of creative or outrageous ideas. It's often used in contexts where someone shares wild theories or imaginative concepts, particularly in fandoms.
His imagination is just too wild!
Literally meaning 'divine drama', this term refers to a movie or TV series that is exceptionally well-made or captivating. However, it can also sarcastically describe something that is overly dramatic or unrealistic, ...
The plot of this show is truly divine; I can hardly believe it!
Translating to 'chosen one by heaven,' it refers to someone who is perceived as exceptionally lucky or talented, often used humorously when someone achieves unexpected success.
Winning the lottery makes him truly the chosen one by fate.
Too show-off / Impressive - Sarcastically praising something outrageous or unexpected.
This move is too impressive, I am amazed.
Literally 'scissors hand', this term is used to refer to someone who frequently makes peace signs in photos, often seen in selfies and social media. It symbolizes a playful and trendy attitude.
She always makes scissors hands in her photos; it's so cute!
Translating to 'selfie artifact', this term refers to gadgets or tools that make taking selfies easier and more effective, showcasing the obsession with selfie culture in modern society.
This selfie artifact is really useful; my photos have improved a lot.
Translating to 'kneeling request', this term humorously implies begging for something, often used when someone is desperate for help or information. It expresses a playful sense of urgency.
I am kneeling in request for you to tell me the strategy for this game!
Means 'pretend master.' It refers to someone who pretends to be an expert or knowledgeable in a certain area but lacks real expertise. This term often highlights the gap between appearance and reality in the online wo...
On the forum, there are many comments from pretend masters, everyone should be cautious.
This term means 'slippery fingers' and is used to indicate accidentally posting something online, usually when one meant to do the opposite. It often comes with a humorous or light-hearted connotation.
I just accidentally posted the wrong photo, how embarrassing.
Translating to 'hotly discussed across the internet', this term refers to trending topics or viral sensations that gain widespread attention and discussion online. It highlights the nature of internet culture and trends.
This event has sparked hot discussions across the internet.
Translating to 'fatalism', it reflects the belief that events are predetermined and unavoidable. This term is often used in discussions about life choices and destiny.
I always feel that our lives are arranged by fatalism.
Literally 'hot pot extra spicy,' this phrase humorously indicates that things are getting intense or exciting. It can describe a situation that is escalating quickly.
This match is really heating up; I can hardly keep watching!
Literally meaning 'fake lard', this term humorously describes something that is fake or not what it seems, often used in consumer contexts. It addresses issues of authenticity in products or experiences.
This skincare product really feels like fake lard; it has no effect.
Translating to 'everything can be', this term implies that anything can be interpreted or adapted to one’s liking, often used to suggest flexibility in thinking or creativity.
In this project, anything can be used; feel free to express your creativity.
This term means 'trivia' or 'little-known facts.' It refers to interesting, obscure knowledge that is fun to share and often used in social settings.
Did you know? This animal has some trivia.
Translating to 'real cow,' this slang is used to describe someone who is truly impressive or outstanding in their field, akin to saying 'a real deal' or 'a real boss.'
He is a real cow in the game, with exceptional skills.
This term means 'ahead of its time' and describes something innovative or futuristic. It is often used to praise creative ideas or trends.
This movie is really ahead of its time; many of its concepts are very innovative.
Translating to 'true fragrance warning', this term describes a situation where someone who was skeptical or critical of something ends up genuinely enjoying it. It humorously warns others about the unexpected enjoyment.
I didn’t like this movie before, but after watching it, true fragrance warning!
Referring to 'Douyin culture,' this term describes the trends, memes, and behaviors that emerge from using Douyin, China's version of TikTok. It reflects the unique characteristics of short-video platforms.
Douyin culture has made many young people more creative.
This term means 'to rhyme', often used in creative writing contexts such as poetry or song lyrics. It indicates the creative process of making words sound harmonious.
His lyrics always rhyme; they sound very smooth.
Translating to 'like friends', this term refers to those who frequently engage with one's social media content by liking, commenting, or sharing. It highlights the importance of online social interactions.
I have many like friends; they're always the first to like my posts.
Translated as 'high-level,' this term refers to advanced or elite skills, knowledge, or understanding in a specific area, often used in contexts like gaming or academia. It's used to describe someone who is exceptiona...
He is a high-level player; he always wins easily in games.