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.
Translating to 'cloud-like', this term refers to someone who gives likes or comments on social media without genuine engagement. It highlights superficial interactions common in online culture.
Her photo received a lot of cloud likes.
Translates to 'guaranteed to be popular.' This term is used to describe a trend, product, or content that is expected to gain a lot of attention or 'go viral.'
The plot of this TV series is so exciting; it's guaranteed to be popular!
Translating to 'hero aura', this term describes the phenomenon where a central character in a story or real life seems to have good luck or advantages simply because they are the protagonist. It's often used jokingly.
His life is truly like a hero aura; he always encounters good things.
Translating to 'beautiful person with a sweet voice,' this term describes someone who not only looks great but also has a captivating voice. It is often used in the context of singers or live streamers.
She is truly beautiful with a sweet voice; she captivates people when she sings.
Meaning 'Twitter culture,' this term describes the behaviors, trends, and dynamics that arise from using Twitter and similar platforms. It reflects the impact of social media on communication and culture.
Many people now follow Twitter culture.
Literally 'ceiling,' this term refers to achieving the highest possible standard or limit in a given context, often used to describe someone's peak performance or most ambitious goals.
Her dancing skills have reached the ceiling; she's incredible.
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.
Meaning 'subculture', this term explains niche communities within larger cultures, often characterized by specific interests or lifestyles. It's used to discuss the diversity of online identities.
This anime is very popular within the subculture community.
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.
This term means 'social shake', referring to a dance style that emphasizes playful and carefree movements. It’s popular in social media as a form of expression and fun.
This dance style is the social shake, and everyone enjoys learning it.
Meaning 'goose group', this term describes a close-knit online group sharing related interests, often used among fans and content creators. It emphasizes community and shared passion.
I joined a goose group where everyone discusses their favorite anime.
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.
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!
This term means 'to watch the excitement,' referring to the act of observing events, often with a sense of curiosity or entertainment.
An accident happened on the street, and everyone is gathering to watch the excitement.
Literally 'flipping the board,' it refers to a dramatic reversal of opinion or situation, often used in gaming or debates. It indicates a change in strategy or unexpected outcomes.
During the match, he suddenly flipped the board and reversed the situation.
Meaning 'game hermit,' it describes someone who prefers to stay at home playing video games rather than engaging in social activities. It can be used in a self-mocking tone.
I’ve turned into a game hermit again this weekend; I didn’t go outside.
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.
Translating to 'sense of involvement,' this term describes the emotional resonance or connection one feels with a story, movie, or situation. It's often used in discussions about media and personal experiences.
This movie has a strong sense of involvement; it left a lasting impression after watching.
To Fall Off the List / Did Not Make the Cut
He entered the singing competition three times, fell off the list every time, but still did not give up.
Translating to 'a thousand layers of meaning,' this term conveys a sense of complexity in a situation or statement and is often used to describe nuanced or multifaceted interactions.
What he said has a thousand layers of meaning, making it hard to figure out.
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 meaning 'to insert an eye', this term is used in online comment sections to signal that a user is watching or paying close attention to a discussion. It indicates engagement.
This post is so interesting; I want to signal that I'm watching.
Translating to 'food blogger', this term refers to individuals who create content around food, including reviews, recipes, and cooking videos. It reflects the rise of food culture in social media.
She is a popular food blogger who shares many delicious recipes.
Translating to 'emotional management,' this term refers to the practice of managing one's emotions effectively, especially in stressful situations. It has gained importance in discussions about mental health.
Emotional management is very important in the workplace.
This phrase translates to 'turned over', often reflecting a situation where someone or something experiences a significant change or transformation, usually in a surprising way.
This situation really turned over; the result was completely different from what I imagined.
Literally translates to 'coding monkey.' This term is often used to refer to software developers in a somewhat self-deprecating or humorous way, suggesting that they are just following orders.
As a coding monkey, I write code every day.
Literally meaning 'to draw a big pancake,' this term refers to making grand promises or plans that are unlikely to be fulfilled. It often indicates false hopes or unrealistic expectations, especially in corporate or s...
The boss always makes grand promises, making us feel optimistic about the future.
Meaning 'river crab', this term is a euphemism for censorship in China, derived from the word 'harmonious'. It reflects the way laughter and irony can be used to discuss serious issues like censorship.
This article might get censored.
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.
This phrase translates to 'good looks are justice' and reflects the societal belief that attractiveness can lead to advantages in life, especially in terms of social interactions and opportunities.
In this society, good looks are justice; appearance is really important.
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.
Means 'trend' or 'fashion.' It signifies what's currently popular, particularly in fashion, music, or lifestyle choices. It's often used in discussions surrounding youth culture and consumer trends.
This is a new trend that everyone is chasing.
This term means 'to connect in audio', often used in live streaming contexts referring to inviting guests to join an online broadcast. It showcases collaborative interaction.
I will invite a few guests to connect in this live broadcast today.
Translates to 'short video.' It refers to a popular format of quick, engaging content on platforms like Douyin or TikTok. This term reflects the shift towards brief, easily consumable entertainment.
I’m addicted to short videos; I have to watch them every day.
Literally meaning 'to hold down the finale,' this term refers to the most exciting or important part of an event or performance. It signifies a peak moment that leaves a lasting impact.
The finale of this performance was so exciting that the audience stood up and applauded.
Translating to 'surfing online,' this term refers to casually browsing the internet without a specific goal or purpose. It's often associated with relaxation and leisure time.
I had nothing to do today, so I just surfed online to see what's new.
Literally meaning 'form a group,' this term refers to people coming together for support or mutual benefit, especially in business or social contexts. It reflects community and cooperation.
We need to come together to face the competition.
This term literally means 'knee-licking' and refers to excessive flattery or sycophancy, especially towards celebrities or powerful figures. It indicates over-the-top admiration.
Netizens are practically fawning over this celebrity.
Translating to 'cloud raving,' this term refers to enjoying a rave or dance party online through live stream. It captures the fun of participating in events virtually.
This weekend we're going to enjoy a cloud rave together and have fun with the music.
Translating to 'awakening agent,' this slang is used to describe something that brings clarity or a sudden realization, often about a social or personal issue. It symbolizes enlightenment in a sarcastic manner.
This article was really my awakening agent; it made me see many things clearly.
Translating to 'fake social interaction,' this term describes superficial interactions, particularly in social media, where people engage for appearances rather than genuine connection.
Friendships nowadays are a bit superficial; everyone is focused on appearances.
Translating to 'believe in work,' this term signifies a strong dedication to one's job and the belief that hard work leads to success. It can also imply a workaholic mindset where work is prioritized above all.
He is someone who believes in work, often working late into the night.
Translates to 'star-chasing tribe.' This term refers to fans who are devoted to celebrities or pop stars, often participating in fan activities and supporting their idols fervently. It reflects the passion in Chinese ...
As a star-chasing tribe member, I read my idol's news every day.
Translating to 'false artsy,' this term is used to criticize those who superficially embrace artsy or literary lifestyles without genuine depth. It highlights a perceived inauthenticity in one's expression.
He always posts some 'false artsy' photos that aren't authentic at all.
Translating to 'benchmarking', this term is used in business contexts to compare products or services against leading competitors. It signifies striving for improvement and competitiveness.
Our product needs to benchmark against the top brands in the market.
This means 'jailbreak', often used in the context of modifying devices to remove restrictions. It can also metaphorically refer to breaking out of social norms or restrictions.
I just jailbroke my phone, now I can download any app.
Smart contract - Self-executing code on the blockchain.
This smart contract had a vulnerability and was hacked.
Literally meaning 'postgraduate exam dog,' this term references students who are tirelessly preparing for graduate school entrance exams. It often reflects a sense of shared struggle and dedication among students.
As a postgraduate exam dog, I study at the library every day.
Translates to 'elimination match,' it refers to competitions where participants are gradually eliminated, often used in both sports and gaming contexts.
This competition is an elimination match; the losing participants will be out.
The term refers to characters from a popular Chinese animated series, often used in a nostalgic or affectionate context. It can also imply being quirky or unique.
I loved watching the葫芦娃 cartoons when I was a child.
Page 20 of 25 — 1,228 total terms