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 meaning 'ride the wind and break the waves,' this phrase conveys determination and courage in overcoming difficulties. Popularized by inspirational quotes and trending in motivational contexts.
On the path to pursuing our dreams, we must ride the wind and break the waves.
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.
Meaning 'African rainbow,' this slang is used to humorously describe something that is unexpectedly vibrant or colorful, often in a surprising or ironic way. It highlights creativity in expression.
His outfit combination is truly an African rainbow; it’s so cool!
Hurry up / get on with it / let's go — abbreviation of 搞快点 (gǎo kuài diǎn), a Cantonese-influenced expression meaning "do it faster." Used to urge someone to speed up, often impatiently or excitedly.
The updates are so slow — GKD, hurry up!
You're right (often sarcastic) — abbreviation of 你说得对 (nǐ shuō de duì), literally "what you said is correct." Can be sincere agreement, but on Chinese internet it is almost always used sarcastically to dismiss an argu...
Sure sure sure, NSDD — you're the greatest.
Meaning 'breaching a promise', this term is used when someone breaks a commitment or agreement, especially in a public context like partnerships or sponsorships. It conveys a sense of betrayal or disappointment.
His breach of promise left everyone disappointed.
This term is a playful way to refer to the person who posts content on forums or social media, often implying they are somewhat of a king or authority in the discussion. It reflects the hierarchy in online conversations.
The posts from the content king always attract attention.
Literally 'digging graves', this term is used to describe the act of reviving or bringing attention back to old topics or posts on the internet, especially when it resurfaces unexpectedly. It's often used humorously.
She was digging graves in the forum, finding popular posts from years ago.
Down to earth, grounded in real life — describes content, language, or a person that feels authentic and relatable to ordinary people rather than polished or out of touch. The defining quality of 张雪机车's appeal: she ta...
She speaks in such a grounded way — watching her videos feels like chatting with a neighbor.
Translating to 'stream of consciousness,' this term is used to describe a style of writing or expression that flows freely without a strict structure. It often reflects personal thoughts and feelings.
His article has a stream of consciousness feel, making it very pleasant to read.
Pretty girl / babe / sis — MM can stand for 美眉 (měi méi, beautiful eyebrows / pretty girl) or 妹妹 (mèi mèi, little sister). Used to address or describe an attractive young woman, or affectionately among young women to ...
This girl's photos are gorgeous!
'Milk tea literature' describes content that is overly sweet, superficial, or trendy—often found in social media posts. It highlights the shift towards aesthetics over substance in online discourse.
This article is really milk tea literature; I gained nothing from reading it.
Seed phrase / Mnemonic - Recovery words for your crypto wallet.
Write your seed phrase on paper, do not store it on your phone.
Often refers to young, fervent nationalists who express strong patriotic views online. Originally neutral, it sometimes carries a negative connotation when describing overly aggressive or extreme supporters.
Those little pinks are always arguing online, defending their views.
Gold farming / Play to earn - Making money by playing blockchain games.
He earns thousands per month gold farming.
Translating to 'under the spotlight,' this phrase describes being in a position where one is the center of attention, often used to refer to celebrities or public figures.
Under the spotlight, he always appears perfect.
Translating to 'past star,' this term refers to celebrities who were once popular but are now forgotten or no longer in the spotlight. It is often used in gossiping about the entertainment industry.
His movie is considered a work of a has-been star, but it’s actually not bad.
Translating to 'top-tier Weibo,' this term refers to highly influential or popular accounts on Weibo, regarded as trendsetters in the social media landscape.
Her Weibo account is top-tier, often leading trends.
Literally meaning 'eating melon online', this phrase refers to the act of observing gossip, drama, or scandals on the internet without actively participating, akin to being a spectator.
I'm online eating melons on Weibo, it's so interesting.
This term means 'pretend to be serious', often used in a playful context where someone feigns seriousness for comedic effect. It highlights a humorous approach to situations that are typically more serious.
I pretended to be serious during the meeting, but in reality, I was thinking about something else.
Referring to 'cloud broadcasting', this term denotes streaming content over the internet, especially during events like concerts or live shows. It captures the growing trend of online participation in real-time events.
I streamed a concert at home last night.
Literally meaning 'melon skin', this term is used to describe someone who is silly or foolish, often in a lighthearted manner. It can also refer to absurd situations or comments, similar to calling someone a 'goofball'.
He's such a goofball; he actually believes that rumor.
Literally meaning 'to push a cart,' this term is often used to describe someone who is working hard to promote or support something, especially in business or online content.
He is a content creator who's really pushing his brand, gaining more fans every day.
Smiling proudly through the jianghu — the title of Jin Yong's beloved novel about a wandering swordsman who refuses to be bound by any faction or ambition. Online, used to describe a carefree, unbothered attitude towa...
After quitting, I can finally smile proudly through the jianghu — no more rat race for me.
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.
Digital collectible - The Chinese term for NFTs to avoid regulatory issues.
This digital collectible has a limited release of 10000 copies.
This term means 'to become' and is often used to express disappointment in how someone has changed for the worse. It reflects a sense of loss or regret.
How did he become such a person?
Exposure freak; used to describe someone who enjoys sharing personal details, potentially too much, in public forums. It can be humorous or critical.
She’s really an exposure freak, sharing everything online.
Page 25 of 25 — 1,228 total terms